UK TROOPS TO PATROL FRENCH BEACHES

We will do whatever is necessary to curb crisis

- Macer Hall Political Editor

BRITISH troops will patrol French beaches in a united effort by both countries to tackle the “horrendous’ migrant crossings costing so many lives.

Priti Patel will head to Paris this weekend to thrash out an agreement to smash people trafficking gangs after at least 27 people drowned in the Channel on Wednesday.

UK Border Force vessels could also be permitted to patrol waters just off the French coast in the crackdown.

The Home Secretary is planning a border cooperation agreement with ministers and officials from President Emmanuel Macron’s government. Interior ministers from across Europe are also expected to meet in Brussels within days to discuss continentwide measures to take back control of migration.

After months of refusal to cooperate from President Macron’s administration, the Home Secretary yesterday finally convinced her French counterpart Gerald Darmanin of the need for urgent action in the wake of the “horrendous” tragedy.

At least 27 migrants died when a flimsy boat capsized off Calais after reportedly being hit by a container ship.

A Home Office statement following their phone conversation said: “The ministers underlined the need for deeper co-operation on stopping the Channel crossings, and the need to work closely with European partners.

“The Home Secretary will meet with Minister Darmanin this weekend to further this work and she will send officials and law enforcement officers to Paris tomorrow to intensify joint cooperation and intelligence sharing. Both ministers agreed to remain in touch.”

Ms Patel, below, yesterday told MPs there was “no quick fix” to the migrant crisis.