My migrant deal will make the UK more secure

LLEGAL migration undermines the security of our borders. People are right to be angry when they see others disrespecting our laws. They’re right to question taxpayer money being spent on hotels instead of on strained public services or improving their lives.

- By Sir Keir Starmer PRIME MINISTER

This is a global problem. And the only way to solve it is by working with our allies, influencing our neighbours, and projecting strength beyond our borders once more.

That starts in countries where migrants’ journeys begin, and it ends with our closest neighbours, from where people make the final treacherous journey to the UK.

In recent weeks, French police have taken tougher measures to stop dinghies leaving French waters.

We're going further, putting border patrols and specialist units on the French coast to stop the small boats leaving in the first place.

Last week, President Emmanuel Macron and I agreed a groundbreaking pilot. For the first time, a person who arrives illegally in this country via small boat will be sent back to France. In exchange, we will take one person who qualifies via a safe, legal and controlled route. Strict security checks will be in force, and the route only open to those who have not attempted to cross illegally before.