Boats targeted after PM’s Europe ‘reset’

SIR Keir Starmer's “reset” with Europe has delivered a change in French tactics on tackling small boats crossing the Channel, Downing Street has said.

- PRESS ASSOCIATION REPORTERS

Number 10 said reports French police officers had used knives to puncture a boat in waters off the French coast for the first time were a “significant moment” that could have “a major impact” on smuggling gangs.

A spokesman said: “We welcome action from French law enforcement to take action in shallow waters, and what you have seen in recent weeks is a toughening of their approach.”

The Government has repeatedly pushed for French authorities to do more to prevent boats leaving the shore, including changing existing rules to allow police officers to intervene when dinghies are in the water.

Those changes have not yet come into effect, but reports on Friday suggested tougher action was already being taken.