Jeremy Clarkson has proposed a scathing solution to the migrant crisis: make the UK less appealing than France by highlighting its flaws. In his Sunday Times column, the 66-year-old Clarkson's Farm presenter argued that showing illegal migrants the country's potholes and poor mobile phone coverage could deter them from crossing the Channel.
Clarkson's Unconventional Proposal
Clarkson wrote: "You've got to make the UK less appealing than where they are now, which is France. Show them our potholes and explain that there are vast areas of the UK with such crap mobile phone coverage they'd be better off communicating with two empty tins and a piece of string."
He also suggested highlighting the 20mph speed limits on certain British roads, planning laws that "force everyone to operate their business from a shipping container," and the long A&E waits, such as children with suspected meningitis waiting five hours to see a doctor.
Additional Deterrents
Clarkson wants migrants to know about the high taxes they'd face if they get a job or pass away, as well as the pollution in British rivers. He also cited free speech failings, noting that people can be prosecuted for social media posts.
Finally, he suggested showing migrants the empty fields of British farmland, adding that if they still want to come over despite all these issues, "you can't have any effing money."
Public Reaction
Fans were quick to agree with Clarkson on social media. One wrote on X: "Makes more sense than the Reform Navy fantasy!" Another said: "Post pictures of all the towns dying. Covered in filth. Shops shut. Needles everywhere."
However, some were skeptical, with one person commenting: "The trouble is they'll still get a house/hotel room, mobile credit etc., why does a kid off a boat give a sh** about potholes?"
