LONDON — The UK government has announced a new three-year border security agreement with France worth up to £660 million ($892 million), aimed at reducing illegal migrant crossings across the English Channel.
The deal introduces performance-based funding, with part of the payment dependent on measurable success in curbing crossings.
Around 41,000 people made the journey to England in small boats in 2025, according to official figures—close to the record levels seen in 2022.
Under the agreement, approximately £500 million will be allocated to strengthen enforcement along northern France’s coastline. This includes the deployment of nearly 1,100 personnel made up of law enforcement officers, intelligence staff and military units.
An additional £160 million will only be released if the new measures prove effective. If results fall short, the funding arrangement could be halted after the first year.
The pact replaces a previous £480 million deal signed in 2023, which expired earlier this year.
New measures under the agreement include the creation of a 50-officer riot police unit, expanded intelligence and judicial teams, and increased maritime patrols. Surveillance capabilities will also be upgraded, with the use of drones, two helicopters and enhanced camera systems.
France is expected to contribute additional resources, including a new patrol vessel and more than 20 extra maritime officers tasked with intercepting migrant boats at sea.
The British government said joint operations with France have already prevented more than 42,000 attempted crossings since Keir Starmer and the Labour Party took office in July 2024.
The agreement reflects continued efforts by both countries to address migration pressures along one of Europe’s busiest and most dangerous crossing routes
Source: Reuters
