Revealed: UK-funded vehicles used by French police to charge student protesters as investigation opens

Vehicles used at school protests

The protests have spread across France over three weeks, with an estimated 160,000 people taking part. Demonstrators have raised concerns about crumbling schools and a shortage of teachers.

French police used 4x4 vehicles funded by British taxpayers to charge at protesters. Demonstrators have also criticised police tactics after tear gas was fired in two areas.

Girl injured during incident

Reports say a 14-year-old girl was struck by a vehicle and taken to hospital. She sustained a haematoma, was later discharged and is recovering. The girl told reporters the incident was “unacceptable.”

UK funds intended for border control

A treaty sets out cooperation between France and the UK to combat irregular immigration, with British financial support for French efforts through the Sandhurst funds. The funding helps France’s National Gendarmerie obtain resources including all-terrain vehicles designed for dunes and beaches. The VEZIs are reinforced with grilles.

French inquiry announced

A separate voice raised concerns about the growing militarisation of French policing in support of authoritarian policies. The statement argued that tactics used at the border could spread to other settings and described the protest incident as evidence of that risk.