Simon Jones
BBC News, Dunkirk
BBC
English and French authorities are working on a plan to return some of those who cross the channel
Despite the new deterrents planned by the British and French governments, the migrants who gather to cross the English Channel in France said they are continuing to decide to go to the UK.
London and Paris are in negotiations to return illegal immigrants arriving in Dover, and the British government is accepting legal immigrants seeking reunion of their families.
French authorities are also considering allowing police and coast guards to intervene in shallow waters to stop so-called taxi boats welcoming immigrants from the beach.
However, many people who temporarily live in makeshift camps in Dunkirk coastal from Curry told the BBC they were not hindered.
One man from Africa – only known as John – said that BBC people were desperate to escape the tort.
He said: “In Dunkirk, it’s really bad – I’ve had a lot of trouble. I’m leaving. I want to leave Dunkirk.”
Simon Jones/BBC
One immigrant who wanted to be known as John said he was desperate to leave Dunkirk.
The UK and France will announce new initiatives to reduce intersections at the July summit.
Over 18,500 people arrived in the UK in 2025 by small boat. This is a record number for the first six months of the year.
Hundreds of more immigrants are believed to have set up the intersection on Sunday.
“It will be difficult to know whether it is viable, humane or effective until details of each and every deal with France are released,” said Ember Solomon, chief executive of the Refugee Council.
He said it is right for the government to work with France to see greater cooperation.
“The current high-execution strategy clearly leads to gangs taking greater risks, and the number of channel deaths has increased,” he added.
The Home Office said it is strengthening its international partnerships to increase its ability to identify, disrupt and dismantle criminal gangs organizing intersections.
