UK and France sign new deal on channel migrants. Details here

UK would pay France £8 million extra each year in an attempt to prevent individuals from crossing the English Channel in small escape boats, according to the new UK-France deal. The amended arrangement under the new deal calls for UK police officers to work alongside their French counterparts in control centers and on beaches. The number of cops patrolling the French shore to attempt to prevent individuals from leaving will increase from 200 to 300. PM Rishi Sunak expressed confidence on reducing the numbers.

However, while speaking to reporters on his way to the G20 conference in Bali, PM Rishi Sunak warned that there was little that could be done to improve the situation. The government is under increasing pressure over Channel crossings, with the number of individuals making the voyage reaching record highs.

The new deal, agreed by Suella Braverman, on a trip to Paris, increases the amount the UK pays France to cover the cost of enhanced patrols from £55 million last year to £63 million this year. Braverman informed broadcasters during her tour that the money will pay for a 40% increase in the number of French police monitoring French beaches.


In addition to increased cops and patrols, the British funds will enable greater use of drones and night vision technology and improvements to reception and removal centers in France.

French ports will get funding to expand the deployment of CCTV and detection dog teams to prevent unlawful truck entrance into the UK.

FAQs

Where is the English Channel?
The English Channel is an Atlantic Ocean arm that connects southern England to northern France.

What is the purpose of the English Channel?
The English Channel is a key passenger and freight route. Ferry and aviation services facilitate crossings.