Reform UK Pledges Navy Operation in Channel to Halt Migrant Crossings

Reform UK, the hard-right anti-immigration party led by Nigel Farage, announced on Monday its intention to deploy the Royal Navy in the English Channel to stop small boat migrant crossings. Farage described the plan as 'the largest military operation' in the Channel 'since World War II.' The proposal was unveiled as part of the party's policy platform ahead of a potential general election victory. In a separate development, the parliamentary standards commissioner revealed on Monday that an investigation had been opened last week into Richard Tice, the party's deputy leader, over an alleged failure to declare a financial interest. The announcement underscores Reform UK's hardline stance on immigration, which has been a central theme of its political campaign. The plan has drawn criticism from opponents who question its feasibility and legality, but Farage insists it is necessary to address what he calls an 'invasion' of migrants. The party's proposals come amid ongoing debates in the UK over immigration policy and border control. No specific details on the scale or cost of the proposed operation were provided, but Farage emphasized the need for a robust response to deter crossings. The investigation into Tice adds a layer of controversy to the party's recent activities, though Tice has not yet commented publicly on the matter.