Gypsy families 'flock to UK'

France has already expelled 1,000 of its 15,000 gypsy population and cleared 100 illegal camps. Settlements in Italy have been removed and other traditional destinations including Germany are tightening controls.

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EU membership now makes it much easier for migrants from Romania and Bulgaria to come to Britain where they can get access to our generous benefits system.

Iulian Stoian of the Roma Civic Alliance of Romania, said: “Given the conditions in Romania the repatriated Roma will seek a better life in countries such as Britain for sure. The exodus of citizens is only to be expected.”

Romanian Constantin Lefter, 40, who plans to bring his wife and four children to Britain, said: “I make no secret of the fact I want to go to the UK for a better life. Why should I be ashamed of wanting to provide for my wife and children?”

Constantin says that even working every day he would find it hard to earn 50 euros a month in Romania. He added: “I am not a thief or a beggar. In Italy I worked illegally for two years picking tomatoes and I was very happy with the money I earned, but it is now impossible to get work there.”

Valentin Cojocaru, 40, forced back to Romania with his wife and four children, said: “We planned to return to France, but at the moment England is the best option.”

Fears of a new influx come as 26 people are on trial in Romania accused of trafficking 181 gypsy children to London to beg and steal.

Norbert Ceipek, who runs a network of centres to rehome trafficked children, said: “The attitude is that the UK is a bit of a soft touch still.”

Immigration Minister Damian Green said last night there were restrictions on Romanians seeking UK jobs.

He said: “They can only come to work if they are self-employed, have a work permit, or permission to work in seasonal agriculture or sector-based schemes, which are subject to set quotas.”