The UK government has rejected US President Donald Trump’s suggestion to use the military to stop illegal migration across the English Channel.
Border Force, Not Military
Trade Secretary Peter Kyle told BBC Breakfast that the UK Border Force is responsible for policing the country’s borders. He stressed that the military’s focus should remain on defending the nation.
Trump, visiting the UK this week, argued that military intervention would be a stronger deterrent. He called illegal migration a threat that “destroys countries from within” and said it “doesn’t matter what means you use” to stop it.
Kyle responded that the Border Force has been reinforced under the current government. The Royal Navy has a working relationship with the Border Force and can be called if needed. “Our military must focus on national defense,” he said.
Channel Crossings and Deportations
On Friday, September 19, hundreds of migrants attempted to cross the Channel. Six boats are believed to have left northern France after calmer weather.
That morning, an Eritrean man became the second migrant deported under the UK-France “one in, one out” scheme. He had lost a High Court bid to halt his removal.
The Home Office has tightened rules around human trafficking claims to make deportations easier. New Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is focused on minimizing last-minute legal challenges. Currently, about 100 men who arrived by small boats are in immigration removal centres near Heathrow, awaiting deportation to France.
Government Plans and Deterrence
Since August, over 5,500 migrants have reached the UK. Authorities hope that removal flights and stricter measures will act as a deterrent. Conservative and Reform UK parties are calling for tougher action, though neither has suggested using military force.
The UK government continues to rely on border enforcement and diplomatic agreements to manage Channel migration.
