UK, France Agree Nearly USD900M Plan to Reduce Channel Crossings

(MENAFN) The United Kingdom and France have agreed on a nearly $900 million initiative aimed at reducing small-boat migrant crossings across the English Channel, with formal signing expected on Thursday.

According to reports, the £662 million agreement includes increased security measures on the French coastline, including the deployment of at least 50 riot-trained police officers tasked with managing beach activity and disrupting smuggling networks.

The plan also involves expanded surveillance operations, with France set to deploy drones, helicopters, and advanced camera systems to help detect and intercept suspected smuggling operations and irregular migration routes.

UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is expected to sign the three-year deal and said that joint efforts with France have already prevented large numbers of attempted crossings. She added that further action is needed to stop dangerous journeys and target smuggling networks.

Despite increased enforcement efforts, crossings continue at high levels. On a recent Saturday, more than 600 people reportedly crossed the Channel, marking the highest daily total recorded so far this year.

So far in 2026, more than 6,000 migrants have reached the UK via small boats. Last year, the total number of crossings reached 41,472, reflecting an increase compared with the previous year, despite intensified border control measures.

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