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French security cash welcome
[ January 19, 2018 // Chris ]The Freight Transport Association has welcomed the plans for an additional £44.5 million to be spent on strengthening security at Calais and other French ports, announced by the UK and Frwench governments yesterday (18 January).
The money will be used for fencing, CCTV and infrared detection technology in Calais and other border points, said the British Ports Association.
FTA’s Head of European policy, Pauline Bastidon, said that while the situation has greatly improved as a result of the ‘Jungle’ camp clearance, there was still evidence of migrant activity, not only in Calais, but also on the roads leading up to the town.
She added: “This is something that will only be solved through reinforced cooperation between the French and the UK Governments. With Brexit looming on the horizon, this cooperation is more crucial now than ever.
“We also welcome the commitment from the French President that no new camp will be built or allowed to grow to replace the Jungle.”
Meanwhile, FTA is urging drivers to take extra care on roads to and from the port areas, and to be extremely vigilant on the approach to Calais.
BPA policy manager, Mark Simmonds, said: “Extra security at the Port of Calais is a good thing but Ministers must ensure that in forthcoming Brexit negotiations and in any further bilateral discussions, Government intervention at the border is kept to a minimum. It is vital that goods and passengers are allowed to move as quickly as possible.”