Reform UK says migrant deal was ratified by far-right National Rally president
Agreement between Nigel Farage and Jordan Bardella to return migrants to France faces backlash, with critics saying it goes against France’s ‘interests and sovereignty’
TL;DR
- Reform UK states its migrant return deal with France's National Rally (RN) was fully approved and signed by RN president Jordan Bardella.
- The agreement, unveiled by Nigel Farage and Bardella, proposes returning migrants intercepted in the Channel back to their countries of origin, with France accepting them.
- Critics in France, including government ministers and former prime ministers, accuse Bardella of 'submission' to the UK and acting against French interests and sovereignty.
- Some French media question if the French translation of the agreement accurately reflects Farage's intent, suggesting Bardella may have been misled.
- Marine Le Pen, RN's presidential candidate, has remained tight-lipped on the deal, stating she will comment at a later time.
- Reform UK insists the policy was included in both English and French versions of the document and that both parties are 'fully on board'.
- Nigel Farage previously had reservations about past dealings with Le Pen's party but has developed a relationship with Bardella.
- The controversy centers on the wording of the memorandum of understanding, specifically an English phrase stating France 'will ordinarily accept these persons', which appears to contradict the RN's long-held policy.