French police and navy aid migrant boats crossing the English Channel

French police patrolling the beaches near Hardelot in northern France have been ordered to let non‑European migrants continue their crossing of the English Channel, saying they must only warn the passengers of the danger. British Interior Minister Chris Philp criticised the policy, calling it "absurd" and urging a plan to end the crossings.

A video released in July shows French navy personnel handing life jackets to migrants in an overcrowded dinghy and waving them on toward the British coast, rather than intercepting the boats. UK politicians have described the action as a "betrayal" and accuse France of facilitating illegal migration. This year more than 30,000 migrants have reached the United Kingdom via the Channel, with 13,376 recorded so far and 900 in the last week alone. Britain pays France to curb departures, but critics say the investment yields little result.