Conservative peer suggests drones should be used to ‘puncture’ small boats in France

A Conservative member of the House of Lords has suggested drones such as those engaged in war could be used to “puncture” smuggler boats.

Lord Lucas said: “The drone capability we see daily in Ukraine — could that not be used to puncture people smugglers’ boats before they ever leave French shores?”

Labour defence minister Lord Vernon Coaker responded: “Well, I don’t know about that, but of course the use of drones is becoming increasingly important.

“With respect to his suggestion, I’m sure that people will have heard that and will consider it in due course.”

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