British authorities have returned at least 60 migrants to France under a new Channel rescue agreement, marking a significant development in cross-border cooperation. Border Force vessels have made three successful returns to French ports since October when rescuing asylum seekers from dangerous crossing attempts.
The arrangement allows UK ships to request French port access after maritime rescues, with decisions based on factors like medical emergencies and weather conditions. This follows Operation Windspire, a previously confidential plan discussed between former PM Rishi Sunak and French President Macron last summer.
The cooperation comes as Channel crossings continue to strain resources, with over 6,600 arrivals this year representing a 31% increase compared to the same period last year. Critics argue more decisive action is needed, with former Immigration Minister Kevin Foster calling for all intercepted migrants to be returned, stating UK taxpayers shouldn’t fund “abuse of our asylum system.”
Meanwhile, smuggling gangs have adapted tactics, using “taxi-boats” that launch empty before collecting migrants at secluded coastal spots – a method contributing to rising fatalities as French police refuse to intervene once vessels are underway. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp condemned this approach while criticizing the cancellation of Rwanda deportation plans as counterproductive.
The returns agreement represents a modest step forward in Anglo-French migration management, though officials stress more comprehensive solutions remain necessary to address the ongoing crisis.
