Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what armed forces resources he has allocated to tackle small boats crossings the English Channel.

Since military primacy commenced in April 2022, Defence has made available one River class Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), six P2000 Archer class fast inshore patrol craft, three rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs) and one Wildcat helicopter. On average approximately 180 personnel have been engaged in managing small boat crossings under Operation ISOTROPE at any one time. Not all of these assets have been needed at all times and threats to the UK's maritime EEZ have always been regarded as a higher priority.