UK and EU agree to co-operate more closely on migration

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The UK and EU will sign a deal on Friday to co-operate more closely in tackling illegal immigration and criminal gangs, the latest sign of a post-Brexit rapprochement.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has promised to cut the number of migrants crossing the Channel to the UK and views the formal agreement with Frontex, the EU borders agency, as vital to keeping his pledge.

The UK and Frontex will share intelligence, train officials together and post liaison staff to co-ordinate with each other.

James Cleverly, UK home secretary, said: “This government has a plan to break the model of the smuggling gangs, end the abuse of our asylum system and stop the boats. The plan is working with crossings down by a third — but we must go further.

“Organised immigration crime and people smuggling are global challenges that require shared solutions and ambitions. Our landmark working arrangement between the UK and Frontex is another crucial step in tackling illegal migration, securing our borders and stopping the boats.”

Officials stressed that the UK would not be part of EU migration policy or be obliged to take a share of asylum seekers. 

Frontex has deals with several countries neighbouring the EU, and co-operation could be deepened in future. 

London and Brussels will also collaborate on developing technologies to protect borders, such as using drones for surveillance.

The European parliament has criticised Frontex for failing to protect migrants’ rights and over its work with Greece, with the country accused of illegally pushing back migrant boats from EU waters.  

Fabrice Leggeri, a former Frontex director who was forced to resign in 2022, recently announced he would stand for election with National Rally, the far-right French party headed by Marine Le Pen.

EU home affairs commissioner Ylva Johansson is visiting London for the…