Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Migrant Channel Crossings

Monday 8 February 2021 · 3 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 3 Partly answered 0 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Government are taking measures including an agreement with France to increase gendarme deployment and prevent embarkations.
  • National Crime Agency and European law enforcement bodies are working together to disrupt criminal gangs, leading to 50-60 prosecutions last year.
  • Kent police have received extra funding, with 162 officers added so far and more recruits expected, plus an additional 19.5 million in the next financial year.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Natalie Elphicke
Migrants & Borders
Context

The question stems from ongoing concerns over illegal crossings into the UK via the English Channel, with reports indicating increased numbers and associated risks.

Question

What steps is her Department taking to stop migrants crossing the English channel illegally?

Answer from Chris Philp

The Government are taking a huge range of measures, including an agreement with France to increase gendarme deployment and take steps aimed at preventing embarkations from French shores. The Home Secretary highlights the dangers and illegality of such crossings while emphasizing they are unnecessary as asylum can be claimed in France.

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Q2 Caroline Ansell Con
Migrants & Borders Crime & Law Enforcement
Context

The question is prompted by the Eastbourne Royal National Lifeboat Institution's rescue operations involving more than 30 migrants last month, raising concerns about human trafficking facilitation.

Question

What work is being undertaken with France and European neighbours to intercept and close down human traffickers long before they reach the English channel coast?

Answer from Chris Philp

The National Crime Agency and other European law enforcement bodies are working together to disrupt criminal gangs, resulting in 50-60 prosecutions last year and several recent arrests. Doubling gendarme patrols has led to hundreds of interceptions recently.

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Q3 Natalie Elphicke
Migrants & Borders Policing & Resources
Context

The question relates to the ongoing work of Kent police and its Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Scott, on issues concerning migration and border security.

Question

Will my hon. Friend join me in thanking Kent police and the police and crime commissioner for their important work on this issue? Can he assure me that there is extra funding for carrying out this vital work across Dover, Deal and Napier barracks?

Answer from Chris Philp

Kent has received extra 162 officers so far with more recruits expected. The precept will provide an additional £19.5 million in the next financial year. Exceptional funding is also available for specific issues like small boats or barracks at Napier.

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