France's Hollande visits Calais, vowing to close 'Jungle'
- 8 years ago
President Francois Hollande has gone to Calais, vowing to completely dismantle the so-called ‘jungle’ migrant camp there before winter.
Hollande who has faced criticism over the conditions in the port from conservative and far-right political rivals has admitted they are unacceptable.
During the visit with police and other officials, the French leader called on the UK government to do more to resolve the migrant crisis.
‘‘I also want to reiterate my determination to see the British authorities play their part in the humanitarian effort which France has been doing here and will continue to do,’‘ Hollande said.
Around 9,000 migrants and refugees live in the sprawling camp on the outskirts of Calais, most of them trying to enter Britain illegally.
Under a new plan those still living in the camp will be moved to reception centres across France where there asylum applications will be processed.
Hollande who has faced criticism over the conditions in the port from conservative and far-right political rivals has admitted they are unacceptable.
During the visit with police and other officials, the French leader called on the UK government to do more to resolve the migrant crisis.
‘‘I also want to reiterate my determination to see the British authorities play their part in the humanitarian effort which France has been doing here and will continue to do,’‘ Hollande said.
Around 9,000 migrants and refugees live in the sprawling camp on the outskirts of Calais, most of them trying to enter Britain illegally.
Under a new plan those still living in the camp will be moved to reception centres across France where there asylum applications will be processed.