Britain: Crisis of clandestine migration in fishing boats represents a shared European challenge

London, Sept 2 (KUNA) -- British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Wednesday that the crisis of illegal migration via small boats constitutes a shared European challenge that no single country can resolve on its own. In a statement coinciding with the two-day visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to the United Kingdom, Burnham affirmed that, in cooperation with France and several international partners, order and border control would be restored by preventing smugglers from exploiting vulnerable migrants. He noted that the progress made during the summer demonstrated what could be achieved when London and Paris cooperate, stressing the need for both sides to respond swiftly and stay ahead of the criminals who facilitate dangerous crossings. For her part, British Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said that efforts are underway to increase the number of officers to record levels to combat the launch of small boats and pursue the gangs behind them. Mahmood explained that these efforts are beginning to bear fruit, with more than 48,000 crossing attempts prevented, while the number of small boat crossings and the rate of deportations of individuals present in the country illegally have both fallen to record lows. (End) M.R.N. / R.J.