UK Must Send Back Illegal Migrants, Says Ex-MEP

UK Faces Migrant Deal Collapse Amidst Rising Channel Crossings

Talks between the United Kingdom and France over combating small boat crossings are reportedly deadlocked, with a key deal set to expire. The agreement, worth an estimated £650 million, funds a significant portion of France’s illegal migration patrols. As weather improves, the number of migrants attempting to cross the English Channel in small boats has increased, mirroring levels not seen in several years.

Fisherman Reports Busy Channel Waters

Matt Coker, a skipper of a fishing vessel operating in the Channel, has observed a notable rise in small boat activity. “Normally during the winter months we see a drop in the amount of boats making the journey and this is normally due to the bad weather that we get in the channel at this time of year,” Coker stated in a voice note. “However, this year it does seem that every calm day that we’ve had they’ve certainly made the most of it and there’s been large numbers of boats making the crossing.” He added that Border Force appears stretched by the volume of crossings on calm days.

Dispersed Departure Points Along French Coast

Patricia Shanyong, a political advisor and former Member of the European Parliament for France’s National Rally party, described how migrant departure points have spread along the French coast. “Since they dismantled the ‘Jungle’ in Calais and since border controls are now concentrated on that area, the departure of the boats has spread both north towards the Belgian border and even in Belgium and south towards where I live,” she explained. Shanyong noted that smugglers hide boats and life vests in the dunes of a large nature reserve near her home, indicating widespread activity despite police patrols.

Addressing Root Causes of Migration Urged

Shanyong argued that the European Union bears responsibility for not addressing the root causes of migration. “When people are on the coast in France trying to take a small boat to go to the UK, they have traveled through Italy or through Spain or through Greece,” she said. “We need to do something about protecting Europe’s external borders and making sure that these people don’t arrive in Europe.” She believes that strong policies are needed to prevent migrants from entering Europe in the first place.

Stricter Policies and Returns Advocated

The former MEP emphasized the need for a firm stance on illegal immigration. “We need to have much stronger policies in saying if you are caught being an illegal migrant, you cannot be legalized in our country. You will be sent back,” Shanyong stated. She believes that if migrants know they cannot be legalized or remain in a country, the influx will decrease. “If the UK accepts illegal migrants or legalizes them or gives them work permits, of course, this is going to encourage other people to come,” she warned.

UK Government’s Role and French Efforts Questioned

When asked if the UK government needs to do more, Shanyong responded, “Of course, they need to say any illegal migrant in the UK that’s found in the UK is going to be sent back and cannot come back to the UK.” She also addressed the effectiveness of French patrols, acknowledging the UK government’s frustration with the deal’s perceived lack of success despite significant payments. “I fully understand the reaction from the UK government,” she said, but added that both governments are not addressing the core problem effectively.

Border Protection and Schengen Area Reforms

Shanyong reiterated that the fundamental issue lies in protecting Europe’s external borders and potentially rethinking the Schengen Area to prevent free movement within Europe for those arriving from outside. “The UK must insist that the EU does more to protect outside borders, the outside EU borders so these people can’t get into Europe,” she urged. She also called for the UK to have a firmer migration policy itself.

Deterrence and Legal Routes Debate

The discussion touched upon the effectiveness of deterrence, with experts suggesting that a clear policy of returning those who arrive illegally is crucial. The Rwanda scheme, proposed by the UK government, was mentioned as a potential, albeit controversial, deterrent. Some argue that without such measures, the crossings will continue. The need for safe and legal routes for asylum seekers was also raised, contrasting with the focus on deterrence.

Complex Challenges Ahead

The article highlights the complex nature of the migration issue, influenced by factors like existing diaspora communities in the UK, global conflicts, and climate change. The debate continues on how to balance border security with humanitarian concerns, and whether a combination of strong deterrents and accessible legal pathways is the most viable solution moving forward. The upcoming period, with improving weather, is expected to see continued pressure on Channel crossings.

Source: UK Should ‘Send Back’ Illegal Migrants | Former National Rally MEP (YouTube)