The Port of Dover has said more needs to be done to protect the “vital trade route” between Calais and Dover from an increasingly concerning migrant situation at the French port.
Freight drivers and others in the haulage community are facing a growing “personal and financial” risk due to the increasing numbers of migrants waiting to reach the UK for asylum.
The news comes as the United Nations this week issued a new warning of a 'dramatic increase' in the numbers of migrants arriving in southern Europe, estimating that more than 100,000 people have crossed the Mediterranean from north Africa this year.
Those searching for work in the UK are reaching the French port of Calais, which is coming under increasing pressure from the growing numbers, the BBC reported.
“The 2.5 million freight vehicles that carry this trade through the French ports to and from Dover are the lifeblood of our economy,” said Port of Dover chief executive, Tim Waggott.
“As such, our haulage community deserve to be able to go about their business safely and without the growing personal or financial risk associated with it.”
The Port of Dover, together with sister ports in France, handles £100 billion of European trade each year and represents a principal trade route between the UK and mainland Europe.
Waggott said trade between France and Dover has grown by 20 per cent over the past two years and future growth must not be jeopodised.
“Customers choose to come via sea to Dover and via Eurotunnel on this key European corridor because it is simply the quickest, most efficient and cost effective way for trade to move,” said Waggott.
“Trade on this route has grown by 20 per cent in the past two years, a sign of the economic recovery that is taking place. That growth is continuing and we must not jeopardise this.
“Today we add our weight to the call to protect our vital haulage industry and the greatly valued freight drivers who are vital to keeping the UK and Europe moving.”
