Calais mayor threatens to close port unless Britain helps to combat migrants

The mayor of Calais is considering closing the French city’s lucrative port if Britain doesn’t make a “strong gesture” to control a growing tide of migrants trying to sneak across the English Channel. Natacha Bouchart’s threat comes amid mounting tensions in Calais and a Europe-wide debate over how to cope with rising immigration. Calais is the stepping stone for migrants from poor countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa who are trying to reach Britain, which they see as an Eldorado. Many believe that Britain will provide them easier access to residency and prosperity than other European countries.

Today, I want a strong gesture from the British government so they admit there is a problem. I have means to pressure… I could make the decision to block the port.

Natacha Bouchard, mayor of Calais

Bouchart, who is also a senator, spoke after meeting Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve. She said he approved her proposal to create a day centre for migrants, who live in squats and makeshift camps. Cazeneuve discussed the Calais tensions last week in London with his British counterpart Theresa May, and both said they were “determined to respond together” to the security and economic difficulties the city faces linked to the migrants. They promised to increase security measures and efforts against human trafficking, and to try to “dissipate the myths” that draw so many migrants to Britain.

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