Evil people-smuggling gangs offering "buy one, get one free" deals
People-smuggling gangs are reportedly offering "buy one, get one free" deals to migrants who are caught attempting to cross the English Channel. According to government insiders, many of those intercepted by French police simply make further attempts at a later time. Traffickers in Calais can charge up to £7,500 for these dangerous crossings in flimsy dinghies, which have been described as deathtraps.
"Many migrants have assurances from the gangs"
Senior officials have revealed that migrants often have assurances from the smuggling gangs that if they are caught during their first attempt, they will have the opportunity to try again later. While interceptions by French police have increased, officials believe that the increased numbers include many individuals who will just make another attempt. The total number of crossings since Rishi Sunak became PM in October is estimated to have surpassed 25,000, pending official figures.
Tory MPs question the effectiveness of paying France for migrant control
Tory MPs are openly questioning the purpose of the £480 million payment made to France for migrant control, as boats continue to arrive on the UK's shores. Downing Street has defended the expenditure, citing an increased interception rate. However, critics argue that asylum should not be granted to "fit young men who have essentially gamed the system".
No chance of catching every attempted crossing, warns former French ambassador
Sylvie Bermann, France's former ambassador to Britain, has warned Chancellor Rishi Sunak that it is virtually impossible to catch every attempted crossing. With 150km of coastline to monitor, preventing illegal crossings is extremely challenging. Despite the ongoing efforts, the number of migrants successfully crossing the Channel remains a pressing issue.
