MEPs back rapid response teams to tackle illegal immigration

Members of the European Parliament gave in April 2007 their backing to new Rapid Border Intervention Teams that will provide assistance should any EU state face a large influx of illegal immigrants. The teams will work under the authority of national border guards and in cooperation with Frontex - the EU's border agency. In 2006 an estimated 20,000 African immigrants landed in Lampedusa in Italy with a further 30,000 in the Canary Islands. The authorities were often unable to cope - especially as many needed medical help.