President Emmanuel Macron is on a state visit to Britain, the first of a French leader since 2008. His hosts are drenching him in pomp, pizazz and protocol.

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday Britain and France must work together to counter the world's many destabilising threats and protect Europe from "excessive dependencies" on the United States and China.

The talks are expected to focus on new powers for French police to intercept boats in shallow waters and a "one in, one out" migrant returns deal. Speaking in the UK Parliament ahead of the talks, Macron said the two countries were "stepping up" their joint efforts but warned EU support was essential to ensuring "a lasting and effective solution".