This past Saturday saw nearly 500 migrants crossing the English Channel in nine small boats, adding to a growing number of arrivals since the Labour Party took office. The total count for small boat arrivals has now reached almost 5,500 since the election, highlighting an ongoing challenge for the new government.
Policy Shifts and Criticism
One of the first major decisions by Labour, under Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership, was to scrap the previous government’s plan to process asylum seekers in Rwanda. The controversial plan, initially designed to deter dangerous Channel crossings, was intended to save lives by discouraging migrants from attempting the perilous journey. Instead, Labour has proposed the creation of a new Border Security Command as part of their strategy to address the crisis. However, the position to lead this new command remains unfilled, drawing criticism from opposition members.
Opposition’s Perspective
Shadow Home Secretary James Cleverly expressed concern over Labour’s approach, stating that by removing the deterrent, the party sent a message to people smugglers that they were not prepared to take tough measures to control the borders. He pointed out that despite the growing number of crossings, Labour has yet to appoint someone to lead their new border command, calling for urgent action to address the rising numbers.
The Numbers
According to the Home Office, 492 migrants arrived in the UK on Saturday alone, following 107 arrivals earlier in the week. This brings the total number of small boat crossings since the election to 5,492, with more than 19,000 migrants having made the journey this year. Tragically, 25 migrants have lost their lives attempting the crossing, as reported by French officials.
Public Concern and Government Response
The issue of migration has become a top concern for the British public. A recent Ipsos poll conducted in the wake of riots indicated that, for the first time in eight years, migration is seen as the most pressing issue facing the UK, with 34% of respondents placing it at the top of their list.
In response, the Home Office has announced the establishment of a new Border Security Command, which aims to unite intelligence and enforcement agencies under a counter-terrorism-style framework. The new unit will include hundreds of personnel stationed both in the UK and abroad, with the goal of dismantling the criminal smuggling networks profiting from the crisis.
Future Steps
Labour is reportedly in the final stages of recruiting a leader for the Security Command, with an announcement expected soon. The appointed individual will report directly to the Home Secretary and will be tasked with providing strategic direction across various agencies, including the National Crime Agency, intelligence agencies, police, Immigration Enforcement, and Border Force. About 100 staff members have already moved into the command’s headquarters at the Home Office, beginning to establish its strategic direction.
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