France finally agrees to intercept migrant boats at sea months after deal to stop crossings agreed
Independent2 days
France Plans Sea Interception of Migrant Boats by Summer
Above: Migrants run into the sea to board a dinghy on May 31, 2025 in Gravelines, France. Image copyright: Carl Court/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
The U.K. and France must work together to create safe routes for refugees. A humane, cooperative approach focused on family reunion and protection, not deterrence, is the best way to prevent dangerous crossings. Instead of blaming each other, both governments should share responsibility and uphold their duty to protect people fleeing war and persecution.
Right narrative
France continues to pocket British cash while doing next to nothing to stop the boats. Gendarmes watch dinghies launch without lifting a finger, and still the U.K. pays. Starmer, terrified of offending Brussels, has consistently refused to call this con out. Instead of smashing the gangs, Labour is smashing U.K. credibility while letting France take them for fools.