The French and British governments have agreed on plans to crack down on economic migrants crossing the channel.

David Blunkett and his French counterpart Nicholas Sarkozy are to extend cooperation in a bid to tackle the growing problem of failed asylum applications.

Following the closure of the controversial Sangatte camp, new measures are to be introduced to combat the threat of displacement to other French ports and along the northern European coastline.

The two ministers signed a legal agreement giving the UK the right to operate full immigration controls at Calais and other French ports.

The governments also agreed to use new technology, which detects heartbeat or body heat, to spot illegal immigrants at the ports of Dunkirk and Cherbourg.

The two ministers also announced plans for renewed cooperation to increase the removal of failed asylum seekers.

"I am driving forward a major programme of reform of the UK's immigration and asylum system to cut abuse and strengthen our borders," Blunkett said.

"But the UK does not face these challenges alone.

"That is why we must continue to work together to find solutions with our allies across Europe."

He said there was also agreement on the need to reform the extradition laws as part of the response to the increased terror threat.

"It is ridiculous that it is taking over six years to try to extradite someone to France under the current system. Our creaking extradition laws are clearly in need of radical overhaul," added Blunkett.