Criticism of Reform UK’s pledge to use Navy to stop small boats – politics live
Summary
Reform UK has promised to use the Royal Navy to stop people crossing the English Channel in small boats if it wins the next UK general election. The plan would involve intercepting boats and returning them to France or Belgium, supported by a joint military command. This proposal has faced criticism over legal concerns and its practicality.Key Facts
- Reform UK wants the Royal Navy to stop small boats crossing the Channel and send them back to France or Belgium under "operation fortress."
- The plan includes a joint military command involving the Navy, Royal Marines, RAF, and British Army, plus surveillance to track boats.
- Similar Conservative proposals have not been implemented due to legal issues and concerns about international treaties.
- In 2026, 14,526 people have crossed the Channel by small boat, a 43% decrease from 2025.
- Labour criticized Reform UK's proposal as a distraction from the party’s scandals.
- Retired Royal Navy commander Tom Sharpe said the plan lacks substance and that the Border Force already handles this issue.
- Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, faces a donations scandal involving an undeclared £5 million gift.
- Reform UK is losing support to Restore Britain, a more right-wing breakaway party led by former Reform MP Rupert Lowe, who has offered to unite right-wing groups.
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