The engines of migrants' inflatable boats could be snared in nets as security chiefs try to tackle a surge in illegal Channel crossings, it emerged today.
The tactic is being examined as a way of stopping migrants reaching British waters, according to the Home Office's Clandestine Channel Threat Commander Dan O'Mahoney.
He believed the move could allow a "safe return" strategy in which British vessels would transfer migrants back to France. However the measure has far been delayed because France currently refuses to accept back such migrants.
Refugee rights' campaigners also fear desperate, would-be asylum-seekers could threaten to jump overboard if they are being towed back to French waters.
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