Migrants trying to reach the UK from Calais should be shot to deter them, according to a would-be Kent crime commissioner.

In highly controversial remarks, Steve Uncles, who is standing as the English Democrats’ candidate in the election next year, posted on Facebook: “The only cost-effective way to stop illegal immigrants trying to storm through the Channel Tunnel is to set up a machine gun and take out a few people - that would stop it very quickly and immediately cut dead this tactic...who has got the guts to do this in our politically correct society?”

Mr Uncles later said he meant that guards should be able to fire warning shots and, if they went unheeded, then they should consider a shot to an arm or a leg.

“In most states, the border control guards are armed and that acts as a deterrent to those trying to climb a fence because they know they risk being shot.”

He added: “There does not appear to be any deterrent to something that is costing us millions.

“The only cost-effective way to stop illegal immigrants... is to set up a machine gun and take out a few people" - Steve Uncles

"The situation is a national crisis and is serious and you do need to have an alternative option.”

He said he was trying to make a point that, given the severity of the situation, firmer action was needed at Calais.

Mr Uncles, who is 51 and lives in Wilmington, stood in the first crime commissioner elections in 2012 and retained his deposit.

He is also the South East Chairman of the English Democrats.

The party campaigns for English independence and to leave the EU. He is standing again in 2016.

Stories you might have missed

Man jailed after spiking woman's drink at nightclub

Sex abuse inquiry launched into former Prime Minister

Justice for lawyer's family over boat death

Woman trapped in car wedged between trees on steep bank