The UK government's £660 million deal with the French authorities has sparked controversy after it emerged that riot police operating in northern France have been authorised to use water cannon against asylum seekers. This development is all the more significant given the stark contrast with policing policy in Great Britain, where such measures are banned due to concerns over their potential for harm and their impact on the concept of 'policing by consent'. However, it remains permissible to deploy water cannon in Northern Ireland.
Sources close to the matter have revealed that these French riot officers can request the use of water cannon, CS gas, and batons as part of their public order management powers. This move has drawn criticism from refugee organisations, with Steve Smith, Chief Executive of Care4Calais, condemning it as a 'sickening escalation in state violence against refugees'. He also lambasted the UK government for funding such 'indiscriminate, violent tactics' in another country, given their prohibition on British soil, as being 'inhumane' and 'shameful.'
The deployment of these elite French units is part of a broader effort to enhance security in northern France. This includes the construction of a new detention centre, expanded maritime interception tactics, and a 40% increase in officers on French beaches. While Downing Street reported a 40% reduction in attempted crossings in May due to increased joint operations, 2,726 individuals still managed to reach Britain during that month.
The Compagnies Républicaines de Sécurité (CRS) has faced criticism for its handling of public order incidents in the past. In 2018, officers were found guilty of assault during the 'gilets jaunes' protests, and leaked messages revealed concerning content related to migrants. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office currently advises British nationals travelling to France to be aware of potential protests and public order incidents.