Exclusive reports reveal British Border Force vessels have successfully returned at least 60 migrants to French shores in a significant operational shift. The returns, conducted across three separate missions since October, mark growing Anglo-French cooperation to prevent Channel tragedies.
Under the new protocol, UK captains rescuing migrants from perilous waters can request emergency docking at French ports – a procedure activated after both nations sought to reduce drownings in the world’s busiest shipping lane. The most recent operations saw two Border Force ships permitted to disembark those rescued at Calais.
While returns remain case-by-case approvals, the development suggests warming relations between London and Paris on migration management. The breakthrough comes as both nations face continued pressure to stem record Channel crossings, with over 12,000 attempts recorded this year alone.
A Home Office spokesperson stated: “All maritime interventions prioritize saving lives while maintaining border security.” French authorities have yet to comment on whether the arrangement will become standard practice.
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