The UK has agreed to pay France €72.2 million ($74.5 million) to fund patrols along the French coast to prevent migrants from crossing the English Channel in small boats, according to a deal signed on Monday, Ednews reports citing DW. 

Channel crossings have been a source of tension between London and Paris. The number of migrants arriving on British shores has increased this year up to a record 40,885 so far, already more than the 28,561 recorded in 2021, according to the UK Ministry of Defence.

French Interior Minister Gerard Darmanian and his British counterpart Suella Braverman signed the deal Monday that will see France increase its patrols by 40% in 2022/2023 — equivalent to around 350 extra French officers.

British officers will also join the French-led control rooms to improve coordination and "strengthen common understanding" on the two sides of the Channel.

Part of the sum has also been earmarked to increase security at ports, including the use of drones, police dogs, CCTV and helicopters all to prevent migrant crossings. Reception and removal centers on the French side of the sea will also get funds deal with those individuals who are prevented from crossing.

"It is in the interests of both the UK and French governments to work together to solve this complex problem," Braverman said in a statement from Paris on Monday morning.

"There are no quick fixes, but this new arrangement will mean we can significantly increase the number of French gendarmes patrolling the beaches in northern France and ensure UK and French officers are working hand in hand to stop the people smugglers."