Although the first operation against illegal immigration in the Mediterranean has not yet started, Nationalist MEP Simon Busuttil has obtained his political group's backing to propose that a further €14 million be allocated to similar Frontex-led missions next year.

European Justice Commissioner Franco Frattini complained last week that the EU Council was proposing to reduce Frontex's budget for next year and argued that this would mean that the newly set up border agency could not assist EU member states such as Malta in dealing with the influx of illegal immigrants. Frontex will soon start its first sea patrols in the sea strait between Malta, Italy and Libya in a bid to control illegal immigration.

Dr Busuttil proposed to a meeting of the European People's Party group on Monday that during the upcoming negotiations on the 2007 budget the EPP should strive for an additional €14 million to be added to the existing budget line of Frontex.

Speaking to The Times, Dr Busuttil said he was very satisfied the EPP accepted his proposal and is leading the way on the immigration debate. EU countries should put their money where their mouth is.

Dr Busuttil said that during the upcoming budget talks, the EPP will also be calling for a higher financial provision for sea border patrol missions under the new External Borders Fund.