The UK and France have finalised a landmark agreement aimed at tackling the surge of migrants attempting to cross the English Channel. The £480 million deal will bolster border security and increase patrols along the French coastline.
Key Measures in the Agreement
The new pact includes several critical measures:
- Enhanced surveillance technology, including drones and night-vision equipment.
- Additional personnel to patrol beaches and intercept boats before they depart.
- A new detention centre in northern France to process migrants more efficiently.
Political Reactions
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hailed the deal as a "significant step forward" in curbing illegal migration. Meanwhile, French officials emphasised the importance of bilateral cooperation in addressing the crisis.
Critics, however, argue that the agreement fails to address the root causes of migration and may only provide a temporary solution.
Impact on Channel Crossings
Last year, over 45,000 migrants made the perilous journey across the Channel. The UK government hopes this new deal will significantly reduce those numbers in the coming months.
