France's SNSM lifeboat service declined to rescue approximately 120 migrants aboard a large dinghy heading towards Portsmouth, citing concerns that transferring them to French rescue vessels would endanger their lives. The Prefecture of Manche reported spending £90,000 on five boats and two helicopters to monitor the vessel from Utah beach in Normandy.
Once the dinghy entered British waters, two Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) lifeboats took charge, transporting the migrants to Eastney ferry port on Sunday. The arrival was met by anti-migrant protesters, some of whom clashed with riot police. The Prefecture stated that migrants in makeshift vessels often refuse assistance until situations become extremely urgent, and that forcing them onto state-run vessels due to the boats' fragility could increase the risk of capsizing.
This incident has drawn criticism from UK politicians. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp warned that France's reluctance to intervene earlier in migrant crossings is putting lives at risk, referencing past Channel crossing fatalities. He suggested that France could prevent boats from embarking or intercept them closer to their coast, similar to actions taken by Belgium and Australia. Philp also questioned the use of UK funds for such situations when France does not take these measures.
The RNLI lifeboats faced difficulties docking, being denied entry to Southampton Port and Portsmouth Harbour by vessel traffic services and harbour masters, who threatened legal action. The crews eventually landed at Eastney, where the subsequent protests occurred.
The migrant dinghy reportedly traveled about 70 miles from the Normandy coast, a significant departure from the typical Calais-Dover route. The landing in Portsmouth has caused local controversy, with Portsmouth City Council leader Steve Pitt criticizing the Home Office for poor planning and decision-making.
Fears are growing that smugglers may increasingly use longer routes from Normandy. A French interior ministry source indicated a shift in focus westward due to difficulties launching boats in the Pas-de-Calais region. The success of this particular crossing is expected to encourage more such voyages.
A Home Office spokesman condemned the protests in Portsmouth as "intimidating and thuggish behaviour" while affirming the right to peaceful protest. The statement also noted that the government is working to reduce small boat crossings, reporting the lowest number of arrivals between June and August since 2020.
The RNLI, which assisted over 36,000 people last year, maintains a duty to rescue anyone at sea, regardless of their circumstances.
