UK deploys 45 officers to French beaches in small boats crackdown

The UK government is deploying a surge team of 45 officers to French western beaches as part of efforts to tackle criminal gangs involved in migrant crossings. The announcement came ahead of a meeting at Downing Street between Prime Minister Andy Burnham and French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday morning.

Adapting to Evolving Tactics

The deployment of additional officers aims to address a shift in tactics by smuggling gangs, who are reportedly using fewer but larger vessels to transport people across the English Channel. While overall small boat arrivals have decreased compared to previous years, authorities are adapting to this new trend.

A Downing Street spokeswoman stated that the surge team of 45 officers "almost triples French resources in that area" and is one part of "expansive efforts to bear down on criminal gangs, adapting to their latest tactics." This initiative is in addition to a new 75-strong unit that has commenced operations in northern France.

Prime Ministerial Meeting

Prime Minister Andy Burnham welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron to Downing Street, marking the first world leader he has hosted since taking office. The leaders discussed various bilateral issues, including collaboration on small boats, Ukraine, and strengthening UK-EU relations. Mr Burnham thanked President Macron for his "huge personal gesture of goodwill, trust and friendship with Britain" regarding the display of the Bayeux Tapestry.

President Macron described the relationship between the two countries as "very strong" and expressed his commitment to getting closer. Both leaders acknowledged the need to remain vigilant against the evolving methods of criminal organisations. The meeting also highlighted ongoing efforts to bolster a specialist French intelligence and judicial team, which has grown from 18 to 30 officers, to dismantle smuggling networks.

What Happens Next

The surge team of 45 officers is expected to be deployed to French western beaches in the coming weeks. Further details on the operational timeline and specific responsibilities of the expanded intelligence and judicial team are expected to be released.