Target people smugglers

HOW can two civilised countries let people get into flimsy rubber boats to cross 22 miles of water?

Instead of giving france £54 million, why don’t we set up a reception centre on the french coast to find out the skills and abilities of these fleeing people. After all, we have a shortage of workers in a wide range of jobs.

Then put them on ferries so they can be transported safely to Britain. This would eradicate people traffickers and ensure migrants contribute to the Treasury rather than fall into the hands of the black economy.

BRIAN LEANY, Milton Keynes, Bucks. Why don’t we offer migrants on french beaches ferry tickets at a price to undercut people smugglers? This would save lives and permit border control.

GEOFF PALMER, Beeston, Notts.