Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, on what date her Department submitted a military aid to civilian authorities request to the Ministry of Defence to request military assistance to tackle Channel crossings.

The Government is determined to prevent further loss of life in the Channel and break the business model of dangerous criminal people smugglers.

The UK armed forces already work closely with Border Force in these operations, given their expertise and experience in maritime operations.

This is a complex global issue requiring a response across the whole of government, and it is right that we pursue all options to prevent illegal crossings and protect life at sea.

The Government’s New Plan for Immigration will help deter illegal migration and break the business model of the criminal gangs.