Navy migrants plan ‘completely potty’ idea

SENDING in the Royal Navy to tackle the surge in Channel migrant crossings has been branded a “completely potty” idea which could put people’s lives at risk.

A Ministry of Defence (MoD) source described the suggestion of such action as “inappropriate and unnecessary”, saying that military resources should not been drawn upon to address “political failings”.

Speculation that Home Secretary

Priti Patel had drafted in the navy to patrol the world’s busiest shipping lane came as at least 235 migrants made the dangerous journey on Thursday in 17 boats, setting a new single day record.

Crossings continued yesterday as calm waters remained amid warm and sunny weather, with families including children who were too young to walk, and pregnant women spotted on board boats.

Some officials sought to distance themselves from suggestions of imminent navy action.

But the Home Secretary’s spokesman confirmed considering navy support was one of the potential options being considered, alongside discussions on bolstering Border Force resources in the Channel.

Meanwhile, an MoD source told the PA news agency the idea of sending in the navy was “completely potty” and had “more holes in it than a slice of Swiss cheese”.

They branded it “impractical and unnecessary” adding: “It is a completely inappropriate and disproportionate approach to take.

“We don’t resort to deploying armed force to deal with political failings.

“It could potentially put people’s lives at even greater risk.”