Britain could increase coastal patrols to intercept migrants

Britain could recall one of its ships from the Mediterranean to patrol the UK coast after an increase in the number of Iranian migrants trying to reach Britain.

At least 100 migrants risked their lives trying to reach the UK in tiny boats across the narrow channel between France and England in the past three months, raising fears that some could die as weather worsens.

Most of those intercepted and rescued said they were Iranians, believed to be among thousands who went to Serbia after last year’s now-closed visa-free travel scheme between the two countries.

About 40,000 Iranians fled Iran until Serbia scrapped the deal, which was aimed at increasing trade and tourism, under pressure from the EU in October. Serbia is seeking to join the bloc.

About 12,000 people failed to return to Iran, according to the BBC, quoting a refugee support centre in Belgrade, with many believed to be heading to western Europe.

UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid told MPs that he was considering reassigning a naval cutter on a humanitarian mission in the Mediterranean to deal with the increased flow of migrants.

Two of Britain’s five highspeed cutters are patrolling the channel between the UK and France while another two are in the Mediterranean.

In the past month, migrants were found in dinghies off the UK coast, seen clambering over rocks in the south-east seaside town of Folkestone and 17 were discovered at the port of Dover in a fishing boat.

Migrants have long gathered along France’s north coast, hoping to stow away on lorries heading for Britain.

Britain’s exit from the EU next March could lead to tighter controls on immigration and may push more migrants to make an attempt by sea instead of trying to stow away in Calais.