A fortnight ago, I wrote an article for the Daily Express about how we must stop people smugglers from gaming the system if we are to tackle the problem of small boats crossing the Channel. I concluded by observing that tough rhetoric is meaningless if it is not coupled with a robust, practical, and operationally competent approach.
Today's announcement from the Home Secretary Suella Braverman is an important step forward in tackling the despicable human trafficking trade. Stopping attempted crossings before they leave France is the right approach. It will save lives, reduce the pressure on our immigration system and cut costs for local authorities that are housing migrants.