France to begin intercepting small boats in English Channel after British demands
French officials have consented to start intercepting migrant vessels in the Channel, following an extended period of pressure from the UK.
The change in policy follows the Prime Minister sent a letter to the President asking him to back the initiative and saying there presently "lack any effective preventive measure" in the maritime passage.
French security forces have been authorized to intercept the small boats at sea, but only before they've collected their passengers, according to official statements.
French authorities have infrequently intervened to stop the heavily loaded boats leaving the shoreline because it is viewed as excessively high a risk to both personnel and individuals.
"It is essential that we implement these tactics this month... We have zero effective deterrent in the Channel."
Currently, a French naval police spokesperson states officers will start intervening at sea, with the aim of safeguarding human life.
Notably, the official excluded the use of nets to stop boats, which had earlier been suggested as a possible method to snarl the propellers of the boats.
This determination to intervene at all is a significant advancement, following a short-lived change towards a more aggressive approach this warmer season, which ceased when the former Interior Minister left office.
This was demonstrated in the summer month, preceding a meeting between the Prime Minister and President, when authorities were witnessed walking into the sea to slash the sides of a vessel.
Now French officials will again be allowed to intercept boats before they pick up migrant passengers from the coastal areas of northern France, although it's uncertain how the vessels will be stopped.
Powerful gusts are currently postponing the start of interceptions and the people-smuggling networks will be looking for ways to adjust to avoid interception, as they have done so often in the past.
UK immigration authorities and the Prime Minister's office have been contacted for comment.
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