Brussels is asking Britain to provide additional funding to implement the Action Plan against migrants crossing the Channel in small boats, on top of the 662 million pounds London has already pledged to France to tackle illegal crossings.
The demand was buried in a leaked EU draft of the joint statement being drawn up for Prime Minister Andy Burnham's Brexit reset summit on November 20. The document calls for a British financial contribution towards the EU's Channel Action Plan, which is aimed at smashing people-smuggling gangs and boosting border patrols. "Given the shared nature of these challenges, effective implementation requires a joint effort, including, where appropriate, through a financial contribution by the UK," the draft says.
So far this year, 23,000 migrants have crossed the English Channel in small boats. The EU launched its Channel Action Plan in June, bringing together France, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands, with promises of tougher action against smuggling gangs, more surveillance and closer cooperation between border agencies. But Brussels made clear from the outset that it wanted Britain to help foot the bill for joint operations.
European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen told EU leaders last month that the UK's contribution would be "important," and EU Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner travelled to London last month for talks on migration and border security. Brussels said the visit would review progress on the Channel Action Plan and wider security cooperation ahead of the summit.
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said it would be "shameful" for the Government to "hand over our hard earned money to the EU for nothing in return." He added: "It would be another sell out. The government is already paying 660 million pounds to France for very little in return — over 23,000 illegal immigrants have crossed the channel already this year."
A government spokesperson said: "We do not comment on leaks or provide a running commentary on live negotiations. We are building an ambitious, close relationship with the EU that will strengthen our economy, protect British industry, and create more opportunities for young people across the UK." The demand for a financial contribution remains part of the EU's negotiating position, and the British Government has yet to agree to any payment. The November 20 summit is also expected to produce deals on food trade, energy and youth mobility, and Burnham has promised to set out options for Britain's long-term relationship with the EU, having said he would like the UK to rejoin in his lifetime.
