London: France has sharply criticized the recent proposal by the hard-right Reform UK party to initiate “the largest military operation” in the English Channel since World War II, aimed at preventing migrants from crossing on small boats. The plan, unveiled by the party’s leader and Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage, involves deploying Britain’s Royal Navy to intercept and return the boats to France.
According to France24.com, the French interior ministry responded by stating that the proposed action would constitute a violation of both French sovereignty and international maritime law. The announcement comes amid renewed discussions across Europe regarding irregular migration, especially after a significant migrant influx into the Spanish territory of Ceuta from Morocco.
During a press conference, Farage emphasized the seriousness of the situation, citing recent events in Ceuta. He defended the plan on social media, arguing that humanitarian missions comply with maritime and international law and asserting that the party would prioritize British interests, irrespective of French President Emmanuel Macron’s stance.
The Reform UK party, however, must win the next general election, scheduled for 2029, to actualize their proposal. This comes at a time when the party is dealing with several scandals and financial investigations. Recently, the parliamentary standards commissioner launched an inquiry into an alleged financial interest declaration failure by the party’s deputy leader, Richard Tice, while another investigation concerning Farage was temporarily suspended.
London police also commenced an investigation last year into donations to Reform UK ahead of the 2024 general election, following a referral from the Electoral Commission.
Despite speculation of the announcement being a diversionary tactic, Farage predicted the party could halt the boat arrivals “within a fortnight.” The party’s home affairs spokesman, Zia Yusuf, declared that any French refusal to cooperate would be “a crime against humanity.”
However, former Royal Navy commander Tom Sharpe criticized the feasibility of the plan, suggesting that while the navy has capabilities, forcibly returning migrants to France is impractical. A similar proposal was previously considered and abandoned by the Conservative government in 2020.
Current Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who succeeded Keir Starmer, affirmed his commitment to addressing the crossings. Since taking office in 2024, the centre-left Labour government has focused on dismantling the trafficking networks, enhancing collaboration with France, and has agreed to a substantial financial deal to aid French enforcement efforts.
The strategy appears to be yielding results, with a notable decrease in migrant boat arrivals compared to previous years. However, a recent surge in crossings has been observed, with a new daily record set in late July.