Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch has ignited a diplomatic spat with France after claiming the country is "not serious" about tackling illegal migration. The remarks, made during a Conservative Party event in Saffron Walden, Essex, drew sharp criticism from Labour's shadow home secretary, Yvette Cooper.
Badenoch's Controversial Comments
Speaking to local party members, Badenoch suggested France could do more to prevent asylum seekers from crossing the Channel. "When we look at what's happening in France, we see a country that isn't serious about stopping illegal migration," she stated.
Labour's Swift Rebuke
Yvette Cooper quickly condemned the comments, accusing Badenoch of "damaging international relations" at a sensitive time. "This government's failure to work constructively with European partners is making the Channel crossings crisis worse," Cooper responded.
Ongoing Tensions
The row comes amid strained UK-France relations over migration policies. While both nations signed a £480 million deal in 2022 to increase patrols, crossings remain high. Political analysts suggest Badenoch's remarks may be positioning for future leadership ambitions within the Conservative Party.
Local Reaction
In Saffron Walden, constituents appeared divided. Some praised Badenoch for "telling it like it is," while others expressed concern about diplomatic fallout. The French embassy declined to comment on the remarks.
