French Navy Accused of Running ‘Taxi Service’ for Migrants in English Channel
The French Navy is under fire after reportedly refusing to rescue 60 migrants stranded on a dinghy taking on water just off the French coast. Instead, they passed the buck to the UK Border Force to haul the migrants across the Channel to Britain.
French Officials Watch Migrant Boat for Hours Without Acting
An overcrowded rubber dinghy, packed mostly with men, was spotted 1.3 miles from the French shore at 5:50 AM. French authorities kept a close eye on the vessel as it battled rough seas but did not step in, despite migrants shouting and waving desperately for help.
It wasn’t until four hours later that, via radio, the French Navy finally alerted UK Border Force that the boat was sinking and asked for assistance.
Radio Chats Reveal UK-French Border Clash
The tense radio exchange, broadcast openly for any vessel in the area to hear, showed UK officials reluctant to cross into French waters:
French official: “Do you have a rib to clear the situation if possible?”
UK Border Force: “Regarding sending our rib into French water… If possible, it would be preferred if you could launch your rib on your side, and if there is any distress, we will come into French waters. But yeah, are you able to launch your rib over?”
Eventually, the French navy deployed a boat to escort the migrants nine miles into British waters. From there, UK Border Force took over and brought them safely to dover/" title="Dover" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Dover.
Outrage Over ‘French Taxi Service’ for Migrants
Officials and eyewitnesses slammed France’s tactics, accusing them of shirking responsibility and forcing Britain to pick up the pieces.
“The French said these migrants were distressed and needed help. But they didn’t rescue them. Instead, they asked Britain to do it,” said one witness. “When Britain wasn’t keen, the French simply escorted them even further into British waters. It’s appalling.”
“This is clear evidence the French want to avoid helping migrants but make sure they reach Britain instead,” added another source.
Migrant Channel Crossings Hit Record Levels
- So far this year, 3,224 migrants have made small boat crossings—up 8% on the same period in 2024.
- Since Keir Starmer’s premiership began, 26,466 migrants have arrived this way—averaging 55 daily.
- In just the first four days of March, 1,168 crossed, including 326 on a single day, marking the first time this year over 1,000 have arrived in four days, according to Home Office data.
Rising UK-France Tensions Over Border Control
The UK and France have a pact to combat illegal Channel crossings, with Britain funding increased French patrols. Yet incidents like this highlight growing frustration over France’s enforcement.
With migrant numbers surging, pressure mounts on the UK government to tighten border controls and rethink its deals with France.
