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Farage, Bardella Plan Navy Towing of Illegal Crossers, Officials Warn

6/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

Nigel Farage, Reform UK leader, pledged a government would order the Royal Navy, in partnership with National Rally president Jordan Bardella, to tow back boats attempting illegal crossings.
Former military officers warned the order would breach the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which requires rescue of persons in distress.
Defense insiders said the Royal Navy is overstretched and channel patrols could need new legislation or divert resources.

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Story summary

Nigel Farage, Reform UK leader, pledged a government would order the Royal Navy, in partnership with National Rally president Jordan Bardella, to tow back boats attempting illegal crossings.
Former military officers warned the order would breach the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which requires rescue of persons in distress.
Defense insiders said the Royal Navy is overstretched and channel patrols could need new legislation or divert resources.