"The publicity campaign, which has been signed off by the French government, is believed to be the first to try to dissuade asylum seekers in France from travelling to the UK. The plans have been dismissed by refugee organisations as a gimmick when refugees need practical support. The campaign, which was discussed with the French authorities over the summer, is part of a more aggressive Home Office stance while confronting people attempting to get into the UK on small boats."
"A Whitehall source said: It is a big deal for the French authorities to consider allowing the Home Office to mount a campaign on French territory. We need to ensure that people crossing the Channel know that it is dangerous, that their lives will not be easy in the UK and that they could be returned under the new agreement."
Bilingual posters and leaflets endorsed by the Home Office will be placed near Calais and Dunkirk to warn asylum seekers that Channel crossings are dangerous and smuggling gangs deceive them about opportunities in the UK. The campaign is signed off by the French government and is believed to be the first effort to dissuade asylum seekers in France from travelling to the UK. Refugee organisations have dismissed the plans as a gimmick lacking practical support. Officials say the campaign is part of a tougher Home Office stance against people attempting to cross in small boats. A recent fatal dinghy deflation highlighted the risks.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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