Proportion of migrant boats blocked from crossing Channel by France falls despite vessels now being much bigger and easier to spot amid rise in ‘mega-dinghies’
The article reports that France is stopping a smaller proportion of small boats attempting to cross the Channel, despite an increase in larger “mega-dinghies” that should be easier to detect. This matters because it raises questions about the effectiveness of French interception efforts and the UK-France strategy to deter dangerous crossings.
It says the vessels being used have grown in size, allowing more people to travel in each boat, while the share prevented from launching or continuing their journey has fallen. The supplied text does not provide the underlying figures, time period or official explanation for the change.
- France is reportedly stopping a smaller share of Channel boats.
- Migrant boats are becoming larger “mega-dinghies”.
- The article questions the effectiveness of interception efforts.