Announcing the policy today, Nigel Farage said Reform would stop illegal crossings in two weeks after winning a General Election by deploying the Royal Navy to the English Channel. “I think it's more like Operation Bouncy Castle at the moment,” Mr Fawcett said, adding: “There's a few holes in this dinghy.” The Labour councillor raised concern that the policy could break “really important” maritime agreements. “I never want any mariner to be faced with a situation where a reciprocal nation isn't going to give them help.” He also argued the Royal Navy was not equipped for the task, following years of decline.