Germany is set to close a legal loophole that enables police to seize boats used in the Channel under a new treaty with the UK. This agreement, to be signed by Sir Keir Starmer and German chancellor Friedrich Merz, involves a commitment to make people smuggling to the UK illegal by the end of 2025. Although Germany does not have a returns deal with the UK, it is recognized as a transit hub for migrants embarking from France, where the majority of those crossing the Channel originate. The Independent emphasizes the importance of accessible, quality journalism funded by reader support without paywalls.
Germany has agreed to close a loophole that allows police to seize small boats used in the Channel as part of a friendship treaty with the UK. Sir Keir Starmer and German chancellor Friedrich Merz are due to sign the deal on Thursday.
The treaty includes a pledge that Germany will make people smuggling to the UK an offence by the end of 2025, although no similar returns deal exists with Germany.
The majority of asylum seekers who cross the Channel embark from the French coast, with Germany frequently used as a transit country for migrants.
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