People-smugglers

sir – Squadron Leader James Cowan (Letters, December 28) is correct in identifying the role of small aircraft operating over the Channel in detecting people-smuggling, but in terms of the solution to the problem he is only partly right.

During my time working in the eastern Caribbean as head of the UK security advisory team a few short years ago, twin-engined C-26 aircraft were used to very good effect, both day and night, to spot fast-moving vessels laden with cocaine.

But boats carrying contraband have to be intercepted and boarded. Aircraft cannot do this alone.

Only by working with a small fleet of coastal cutters with properly trained crew can the desired result be achieved. Michael Gough Cooper

West Chiltington, West Sussex

sir – Lieutenant Commander David Wright (Letters, December 27) is correct that we need more vessels in the UK Border Force, but not just to prevent people-smuggling across the Channel. An independent Britain needs the resources to protect its entire coastline, as well as its restored fishing areas. Because of this, I do not accept his proposed solution of purchasing and adapting a small number of second-hand motor yachts.

The UK Border Force has five ships to patrol a coastline of 7,723 miles (excluding the islands). Italy’s Guardia di Finanza has 600 vessels to patrol a coastline of 4,722 miles. Spain’s Civil Guard has 147 vessels to patrol a coastline of 3,085 miles.

We need to get realistic about the resources required, adding this to the many urgent priorities facing the new Government. Paul Knocker

Bembridge, Isle of Wight

sir – Why not involve the Coast Guard more?

Living on the sea front, I often see Coast Guard helicopters flying about. Gill Maden

Bexhill-on-sea, East Sussex