Border Force staff responsible for intercepting small boat crossings in the English Channel have voted to go on strike, citing delays in receiving specialist allowances for their roles.

The industrial action, set to take place in the coming weeks, threatens to disrupt operations aimed at tackling the ongoing migrant crisis in the Channel. The affected staff are those who man Border Force’s patrol vessels, including the Typhoon, which play a key role in intercepting and rescuing migrants attempting the dangerous crossing from France.

Dispute Over Specialist Allowances

Union representatives say the strike has been triggered by frustration over long delays in implementing additional pay allowances promised to staff due to the highly skilled and demanding nature of their work. Despite commitments from the Home Office, workers have yet to receive the agreed financial recognition for their specialist roles.

A spokesperson for the union representing Border Force officers stated: “Our members have waited too long for fair compensation for their expertise and the high-risk nature of their job. They are operating in extreme conditions, facing both physical and mental pressures daily, yet they have not been given what they were promised.”

Potential Impact on Channel Operations

The strike raises concerns about the UK’s ability to respond to small boat crossings, particularly as warmer weather approaches—a period when attempts to cross the Channel typically increase.

In 2024, the Government stepped up patrols and enforcement measures to curb illegal migration, deploying additional Border Force assets, drones, and surveillance technology. However, the strike could significantly weaken these efforts, potentially increasing the number of migrants who reach UK shores undetected.

A Home Office spokesperson acknowledged the strike threat and said discussions were ongoing: “We value the hard work of Border Force staff and remain committed to resolving this dispute. We continue to engage with unions to find a resolution while ensuring our border security operations remain effective.”

Political Response

The opposition has criticised the Government’s handling of the dispute, arguing that ministers should have addressed staff concerns earlier to prevent operational disruptions.

Shadow Home Secretary Rachel Hopkins said: “This Government’s failure to resolve this issue is putting national security at risk. The Prime Minister must urgently intervene before this industrial action impacts border enforcement.”

Meanwhile, immigration reform groups have expressed concerns that a disruption in Channel patrols could encourage more crossings, increasing the risk to migrants making the perilous journey.

The exact date and duration of the strike have yet to be confirmed, but union leaders have warned that if their demands are not met, they could escalate action further.

The Home Office has not ruled out contingency measures, including deploying military support, to maintain patrols in the event of a walkout