The English Channel migrant crisis has taken a dramatic new turn with explosive allegations that French authorities are not just turning a blind eye—but actively helping migrants cross into the UK. British fisherman Matt Coker claims he has witnessed French officials handing out lifejackets to migrants and escorting them part-way across the Channel, before they are picked up by British patrols.
The claims have triggered a political firestorm, with many asking: Is the crisis spinning out of control under Labour’s leadership? And if true, why would French officials be complicit in what some are calling a “silent invasion”?
What the Fisherman Claims
Matt Coker, who works the waters off the south coast, gave a chilling account on Times Radio. He says it’s no longer unusual to see French boats guiding dinghies filled with migrants out to sea—some equipped with brand-new lifejackets reportedly supplied by French authorities.
According to Coker, “They’re bringing them halfway across now. The UK just waits to pick them up. It’s happening almost daily.”
For residents along the coast and maritime professionals, it’s not just the volume—it’s the apparent coordination that’s troubling.
Alleged French Role in Crossings
The suggestion that French police or maritime authorities may be handing out safety gear and enabling passage to British waters has sparked outrage. Some reports claim that lifejackets are even handed back to the French once the migrants are collected by British vessels—implying a routine, even transactional process.
While France insists it’s acting within humanitarian guidelines, critics argue this aid is enabling more risky journeys and fueling the human trafficking trade.
How Many Are Crossing?
So far in 2025, over 7,200 migrants have made the journey across the Channel in small boats—a 30% increase from the same time last year. On a single day, 432 people arrived in just eight vessels. These figures are sparking alarm in both Westminster and local communities already struggling with resources.
Reactions from UK Politicians
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp has called the alleged actions by France “a breach of international law” and urged the government to act fast. Conservative MPs are demanding tighter border policies and immediate investigations, while Labour faces criticism over perceived inaction.
The Home Office, meanwhile, has been tight-lipped, stating only that it continues to monitor the situation closely and remains “in dialogue” with French counterparts.
