Joint patrols would work in the Channel

THE tragic loss of 27 migrants off the coast of Calais has prompted fresh calls for action on both sides of the Channel.

One proposal is to set up joint UK-French patrols aimed at saving lives and defeating the human smugglers. But is this feasible?

Operationally, I am confident that it is. I was Director of Ports and Borders in Canada when 9/11 happened.

We agreed a new arrangement between Canadian and US border agencies that gave officers powers to conduct cross-border operations, both along the 5,000-mile land border and also on the Great Lakes.

Then the issue was terrorism rather than migration but the principle was the same.

These Integrated Border Enforcement Teams worked hand in glove on their common border to enhance security for the benefit of communities on both sides.

There is ample provision in international law to conclude a similar agreement between the UK and France.

The relevant agencies on both sides could establish a joint command structure, which would deploy resources effectively both at land and sea to intercept migrants seeking to cross the border illegally.

Joint assets including surveillance technology could track and trace the migrants, regardless of whose territory they were found in.

Joint teams could be deployed instantly to intercept them. And any that did slip through could be returned instantly to France, where they can claim asylum if they so wish.

Politically, it is much harder. Ever increasing numbers of migrants are entering and remaining in the European Union.

Those refused a permit to stay there simply remain without authority, often moving from country to country in the borderless Schengen zone.

Many are drifting up to northern France and end up sleeping rough without any access to welfare, accommodation or support.

Those that see an opportunity to get to the UK will take it, notwithstanding the dangers involved.

This is fertile territory for the international organised crime gangs who exploit the migrants for financial gain with no regard for human life.

In order to stop the boats, the French government will have to convince their electorate that it is in their interests to do so, knowing that such action will primarily benefit the UK rather than France.

Time will tell if they really want to work with us on this.

If not, I fear that the smuggling gangs will only continue to profit – and more lives will be lost.