France is under mounting pressure to implement stringent measures aimed at preventing small boats from launching across the English Channel, despite receiving substantial financial support from the UK. This urgency follows remarks from Border Security Chief Martin Hewitt, who emphasized his direct appeals to BritPanorama regarding the activation of the much-anticipated maritime doctrine within the last three weeks.
Hewitt described the ongoing delays as “frustrating,” acknowledging that the doctrine, which would empower officials to intervene with boats before they depart the French coastline, remains in legal limbo. The doctrine was first outlined in June, with the intention of enhancing maritime border security.
This impasse arises amidst ongoing financial commitments from the UK to bolster French patrol operations, including resources for drones and coastal units under a multi-million-pound Sandhurst agreement, which is set to expire in March 2026. Hewitt confirmed plans to renegotiate this funding to ensure that financial contributions are directed towards efforts that significantly enhance operational effectiveness.
As discussions continue, the UK government maintains its support for France’s maritime doctrine review, which aims to bolster intervention capabilities at sea. “France is reviewing its maritime doctrine to strengthen its ability to intervene on the water,” stated a spokesman for the Prime Minister. He reiterated that the challenge of addressing illegal crossings necessitates comprehensive, collaborative international efforts.
During his testimony before the Home Affairs Committee, Hewitt underscored the urgency of deploying these maritime tactics, which align with sentiments expressed by President Macron regarding the issue at a summit in July with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. He noted the critical need to address the transit of smugglers effectively, especially given that stopping them becomes increasingly challenging once they reach the beaches of France.
To date, over 36,000 individuals have made the perilous journey across the Channel this year, representing a roughly one-third increase compared to the same period in 2024. Border officials recognize that pull factors, including the prevalence of English-speaking communities and established diaspora populations in the UK, complicate efforts to discourage crossings.
Hewitt asserted the importance of ensuring that the UK’s asylum system does not unintentionally create an appealing environment for those seeking to cross. He emphasized the necessity of minimizing any factors that could contribute to attracting asylum seekers to the UK over other destinations.
Despite the challenges, the UK and French authorities are committed to strengthening their collaborative response to illegal crossings, recognizing that a multi-faceted approach is essential for long-term solutions in addressing this ongoing crisis.
