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<p>There has been a sharp rise in numbers of illegal immigrants in Calais and the
surrounding area, since 2013. This stems from the fact that France, unlike the UK,
is part of the border free Schengen Area. We are clear that it is for the French to
maintain law and order on their soil, but it is in the UK's interest to work with
France to secure the border at Calais and other key ports.</p><p> </p><p>On 20 September
2014, the Home Secretary and French Interior Minister, Bernard Cazeneuve, signed a
joint declaration outlining a number of joint initiatives to tackle increasing migratory
flows in Europe. That includes a range of improvements to security and infrastructure
in Calais, to strengthen the port and provide greater protection to hauliers and tourists.</p><p>
</p><p>Her Majesty’s Government has long been alive to the challenges posed in Calais.
Millions of pounds have already been invested in improving security and upgrading
technology in Calais. The Government has increased staffing levels in the port and
extended security patrols. In addition to physical searches, Border Force officers
use detection dogs, heartbeat detectors and carbon dioxide probes to find those hiding
clandestinely in vehicles and freight.</p><p> </p>
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