Blaming Migrants' Ability to Work
France's Interior Minister, Gerald Darmanin, has pointed fingers at migrants' ability to work in the UK with little risk of expulsion as a contributing factor to the recent Channel tragedy. The incident claimed the lives of 12 individuals, including a pregnant woman and six children, after their dinghy split in two.
Rescue Rejection and Dangerous Journey
It was revealed that some of the migrants on board refused rescue when the boat initially faced trouble off the northern French coast. While a French rescue vessel managed to save 15 individuals, the remaining 65 continued their perilous journey.
Call for Migration Treaty
Mr. Darmanin criticized the UK as a place where working without papers and facing expulsion is unlikely. He emphasized the need for a migration treaty between the UK and the EU to address illegal crossings and establish a traditional migration relationship.
Deadliest Incident of the Year
The recent tragedy marks the deadliest Channel incident this year, with over 21,000 arrivals across the dangerous waters in 2024. The mayor of Le Portel highlighted an area where criminals hide vessels before launching them into the sea.
Response from UK Home Secretary
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed sorrow over the loss of lives and praised the efforts of the French coastguard and emergency services. She condemned the criminal smuggling gangs behind the tragic trade and stressed the importance of dismantling their operations.
Labour's Border Security Command Delay
Labour's proposed Border Security Command, aimed at addressing small boats crossings, is still in the recruitment phase. The agency is expected to target criminal gangs facilitating illegal crossings in the Channel.
