France has warned that British activists could be arrested if they try to stop migrant boats leaving the French coast for the UK.
The warning follows reports that some British campaigners have travelled to northern France and interfered with small boats used by migrants, including claims that dinghies were damaged before launch.
France’s interior minister, Laurent Nunez, said British nationals who interfere could face arrest for offences such as obstruction or violence. French authorities have been told to identify and stop anyone involved.
The actions are linked to a group called Raise the Colours, which says it is taking action because it believes both the UK and French governments have failed to stop Channel crossings.
The group says its members have gone to French beaches to disrupt departures and share videos of their activities online.
French charities and migrant support organisations have strongly criticised the group. They accuse it of intimidation and say the lack of firm action risks encouraging violence and hostility towards migrants and aid workers.
Despite increased policing, Channel crossings remain high. In 2025, 41,472 people arrived in the UK by small boat the second-highest annual total on record. Although this was below the 2022 peak, it was higher than in 2023 and 2024.
The average number of people per boat has also risen, with more migrants travelling in each crossing.
The figures have fuelled criticism of Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government, with opposition parties saying Labour has failed to reduce illegal crossings or remove those who arrive. Labour says it is working with France to tackle smuggling gangs and improve border enforcement.
France insists that individuals taking the law into their own hands will not be tolerated and says stopping crossings must remain the job of the authorities, not private groups.
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