In a significant development, UK Border Force has, for the first time, returned migrants rescued in the English Channel to France. This action marks a potential shift in Anglo-French cooperation on addressing the small boats crisis. The incident signals a new phase in the collaborative efforts between the two nations to manage the increasing number of migrants attempting to cross the Channel in search of a better life.
On Wednesday, a joint rescue operation was launched after a migrant boat ran into trouble near Calais. The operation involved a Border Force Ranger catamaran and an RNLI lifeboat dispatched from Dover to assist French authorities. The French ship PSP Cormoran rescued 59 people, while the British vessel saved an additional 13. This coordinated effort underscores the urgency and complexity of the migration issue, highlighting the need for cross-border collaboration in rescue operations.
Tragically, one migrant died when their small boat deflated. Despite attempts to resuscitate them, they could not be saved. This incident serves as a grim reminder of the perilous journeys undertaken by migrants and the life-threatening conditions they face. The remaining 71 individuals were taken back to France by both French and British ships, showcasing a rare instance of migrants being returned to France after being rescued by a British vessel.
This marks the first instance of a British vessel picking up migrants in French waters and returning them to France. Typically, migrants rescued by Border Force are required to be brought to the UK, with France historically resisting calls to allow their return as a deterrent. This development may indicate a shift in policy or at least an operational flexibility aimed at enhancing cooperation between the two countries in managing the migrant crisis.
The Home Office has stated there has been no official policy change. However, UK officials suggest this operation demonstrates the potential for increased cooperation between Britain and France in addressing the Channel crossing issue. The informal nature of this arrangement points to a pragmatic approach, possibly setting a precedent for future operations aimed at mitigating the crisis more effectively.
This event comes amid rising numbers of Channel crossings. Recent Home Office figures show that over 14,750 people have made the journey so far in 2024, a 12% increase from the same period last year. More than 1,000 of these arrivals have occurred since Sir Keir Starmer became Prime Minister on July 5. These figures reflect the escalating nature of the crisis and the increasing pressure on both UK and French authorities to manage the situation effectively.
At the European Political Community summit, Starmer accused the previous government of a “dereliction of duty” on small boats and pledged £84 million in foreign aid to help curb irregular migration. He also expressed openness to considering offshore processing arrangements, similar to the Italy-Albania agreement. Starmer’s stance highlights a strategic shift towards addressing the root causes of migration and seeking comprehensive solutions through international cooperation.
The situation remains complex, with both the UK and France struggle with the challenges of managing cross-Channel migration while ensuring the safety of those attempting the dangerous journey. As authorities navigate these challenges, the need for a balanced approach that addresses humanitarian concerns while maintaining border security becomes increasingly apparent. The evolving dynamics of Anglo-French cooperation will be crucial in shaping the future of migration management in the region.