Both sides insist that their mobilisation along the border is the minimum necessary for self-defence, but Pakistan, at least, is suspicious.

ECONOMIST: Ever more dangerous in Kashmir

So the seven-year stipulation isn't a requirement to automatically repeat the exercise, but a minimum period which must elapse between border polls.

BBC: United Ireland border poll call: diversions and u-turns

Other elements central to the negotiation that would impact middle income earners, mainly the extension of Bush era tax cuts for incomes below the border, patching the alternative minimum tax, and the potential loss in the payroll tax cut, suggest that the economic situation of the middle class as a result of the fiscal reorganization will remain the status quo at best.

FORBES: How Will The Middle Class Fare In The Battle Over The Fiscal Cliff?

The corporate income tax would be replaced with an 8.5% border adjustable business consumption tax and the alternative minimum tax (AMT) and the estate tax would be repealed.

FORBES: What the Paul Ryan Plan Could Mean For Your Finances

Mr Moore told the BBC News Channel the Border Force aimed to keep disruption to a minimum but "would not compromise on the safety and security of the UK".

BBC: Heathrow queues: Border Force 'ready' for Olympics

What may be left by the wayside until after the election - a budget blueprint, appropriations to run the government, immigration reform and border security, control of lobbyists, a minimum wage increase and health for senior citizens who missed a deadline for choosing a Medicare prescription plan.

NPR: Pre-Election Mood Adds Punch to Lawmaking Session