London: The United Kingdom has signed a major new agreement with France aimed at reducing illegal migrant crossings through the English Channel. Under the deal, Britain will pay France up to £660 million (around $892 million) over the next three years to strengthen border enforcement and prevent small boat crossings.
The agreement comes as the number of migrants arriving in the UK through the Channel remains high. Official figures showed that around 41,000 people reached Britain in 2025 by crossing in small boats, close to the record levels seen in 2022.
As part of the plan, nearly £500 million will be invested in increasing surveillance and security along the northern French coastline. This includes the deployment of around 1,100 additional police, intelligence, and military personnel. France will also use drones, two helicopters, advanced camera systems, and expanded maritime patrols to intercept crossings.
Another £160 million has been set aside for new enforcement measures, but this portion of the funding will depend on measurable results. If crossings are not significantly reduced, payments could be suspended after one year.
The government of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said joint efforts with France since July 2024 have already helped prevent more than 42,000 attempted crossings.
The deal is being seen as one of the biggest bilateral efforts between the two countries to tackle illegal migration and human smuggling networks operating across the Channel.