France has imposed entry and residence bans on ten British far-right activists, accusing them of carrying out acts of "aggravated violence" against migrants on the French coast.
Activists banned for coastal harassment and boat destruction
The French Interior Ministry confirmed the measures against the ten individuals, identified as members of the UK-based 'Raise the Colours' movement. The activists are alleged to have been involved in destroying small boats and harassing migrants.
One specific incident cited occurred in September, when four men waving a Union Flag assaulted a group of migrants near Dunkirk and stole their possessions. The ministry stated the bans were issued against British nationals who had "carried out actions on French soil."
The new UK-France 'one in, one out' asylum agreement
This crackdown comes against the backdrop of a recent bilateral agreement on migration. Last summer, the UK and France finalised a deal to return migrants who cross the Channel illegally in small boats.
Dubbed the 'one in, one out' agreement, it was announced during a state visit by French President Emmanuel Macron. The policy stipulates that adult migrants arriving illegally in the UK will be sent back across the Channel. In return, for each person returned, the UK will accept an asylum seeker from Europe who has not attempted an illegal entry.
The Home Office believes this mechanism will deter dangerous crossings by reducing the chance of staying in the UK. Reports indicate an initial phase could see 50 people returned each week. At current crossing rates, this would affect roughly one in seventeen arrivals.
Who are the 'Raise the Colours' movement?
The banned men are linked to the 'Raise the Colours' campaign, which gained prominence across the UK last year. The movement encourages the display of the England flag on homes, poles, and public spaces as a show of national pride.
However, the St George's flag has also been prominently used in protests outside asylum seeker hotels, leading some to associate the campaign with anti-immigration sentiment. Several local councils have removed the flags, citing issues like traffic regulations, which has sometimes led to abuse against staff.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has described flags as "patriotic" but acknowledged they can be used for "divisive purposes." He has stated he will not tolerate intimidation based on background or skin colour.
While grassroots supporters deny racist or far-right motivations, anti-racist group Hope Not Hate has linked the campaign's founding to Andrew Currien (Andy Saxon), a long-time ally of Tommy Robinson and a former English Defence League bodyguard.
