Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron are anticipated to unveil a strategy for increased French police involvement in preventing small boats from crossing the Channel during a meeting in London this week, though discussions on returning asylum seekers remain unresolved.
While specifics are still under negotiation, with French authorities assessing how to handle vessels already near the shore, a formal agreement is expected on Wednesday.
There is also a possibility that Starmer and the French president could introduce a plan requiring the return of one asylum seeker for every individual arriving in the UK, though British officials suggest this proposal remains uncertain.
Under such a system, individuals arriving by boat could be sent back if the UK agrees to receive another asylum seeker from France with stronger grounds for protection, such as family connections.
Macron will arrive on Tuesday for a state visit, which includes ceremonial engagements but will also focus on bilateral talks with Starmer.
France is likely to permit police to operate within 300 meters of the coastline to intercept small boats before they depart. Any changes must align with maritime law, which restricts interventions unless they involve rescue operations.
Reports indicate that France has completed an assessment of these measures, with further discussions ongoing between French and British officials.
Recently, French police punctured a small boat near Boulogne in shallow waters, though it remains unclear whether this reflects a new policy or was an isolated incident.
Downing Street declined to preview potential agreements before the meeting, though Starmer’s representative suggested progress on small boat crossings was expected.
“We anticipate moving forward on several shared priorities, including migration,” the spokesperson said. “While I cannot preempt summit discussions, we’ve reached agreements on certain maritime strategies with France. Implementation presents legal and operational challenges, but we expect these measures to be active shortly.”
The goal of stricter interception efforts, combined with a possible returns arrangement, is to discourage reliance on smugglers for Channel crossings.
It remains uncertain whether the returns plan will be finalized in time for Macron’s visit, as UK officials note ongoing discussions.
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