Britain and EU join forces in massive crackdown plan on illegal migration as authorities target smuggling gangs

SUELLA Braverman today joined forces with counterparts from across Europe to order a major crackdown on evil smuggling gangs.

The ‘Calais Group’ of ministers from Britain, France, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands met for talks in Brussels this morning, along with EU representatives.

Together they agreed to “bolster” efforts to clampdown on small boat crossings and help each other hunt down people smugglers.

Ms Braverman said: “Countries across Europe must work closely together to tackle illegal migration and crack down on the people smugglers before these issues reach our borders.  

“The Calais Group have held constructive discussions today on bringing solutions that will benefit all our countries and to ensure the evil criminals who profit in human misery are targeted and brought swiftly to justice. I look forward to our ongoing cooperation.”  

Between January and September this year 33,029 migrants came to Britain illegally by boat.

A third of those who crossed the channel came from Albania  — a major hike on the three per cent recorded for 2021.

Currently taxpayers are forking up £6m a day to pay for migrant accommodation costs, including hotels.

Ms Braverman is under huge pressure from MPs to find a solution to the crisis.

PM Rishi Sunak this week vowed to “urgently” bring forward proposals to reduce housing costs by putting migrants in ­holiday camps and student accommodation.

Also, a rise in capacity for immigration and asylum ­tribunals is set to allow 9,000 more cases to be heard before the end of March.

Last month the UK signed a landmark £63 million deal with France to help tackle illegal migration.

The agreement will see a huge increase in the number of officers patrolling beaches in northern France to stop vessels leaving.

The deal with France will also see more investment in port security to stop illegal entry into lorries with the beefing up of surveillance and more CCTV.

Drones and night vision capabilities will also be used as nearby countries including Belgium and Holland are brought into help the crackdown.