UK and France sign new Channel security treaty

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab and Home Secretary Priti Patel have agreed a new maritime security treaty between the UK and France.

Under the UK-France Maritime Security Treaty, negotiated between the UK Home Office and French Secrétariat général de la Défense et de la Sécurité nationale, UK emergency responders will have more power to deal with terrorist incidents in the Channel.

Representatives from both countries have said that the arrangement is the foundation for seamless joint and coordinated action to be taken by UK and French forces in response to an incident, such as a terrorist attack on board a ferry or other large vessel in the Channel.

The Treaty includes provision such as: sharing security information concerning potential security threats; mounting swifter and stronger initial responses to serious security incidents; coordinating more efficient joint responses; and cooperating more effectively in the aftermath of an attack or incident.

Raab said: “As close allies it is vital the UK and France work together to protect our citizens and values. Today’s signing of the UK-France Maritime Security Treaty will reinforce our ability to jointly respond swiftly and effectively to terrorist threats in the Channel.”

Patel added: “As Home Secretary, the protection of the public and our citizens is paramount. The intelligence and security tools this new cooperation provides will give law enforcement and our emergency responders the additional support they need to protect us all. In an uncertain world we must continue to work effectively with international partners to prevent and disable serious security threats.”