EU Border Police Force

HC Deb 14 May 2002 vol 385 cc601-2W

Mr. Rosindell

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on his policy towards the creation of a common EU border police force. [39656]

Angela Eagle

The United Kingdom is supportive of closer co-operation between national border authorities of European Union member states, which we believe is one of the ways to tackle the criminal networks responsible for human trafficking and illegal immigration. We are also keen to discuss practical ways of strengthening the European Union's external borders.

The United Kingdom has given its support to the conducting of a feasibility study, led by the Italian authorities regarding the concept of a European border police. We are awaiting the results of this study. Our Frontiers Protocol entitles us to maintain our frontiers with other member states and the Government have no plans to change their policy.