Sir Keir Starmer is gearing up to label people smuggling as a ‘national security’ concern after over 15,000 migrants crossed the Channel illegally during his tenure. The Prime Minister is set to make this announcement at Interpol’s general assembly next week, unveiling plans for a specialized investigation unit armed with counter-terror powers to combat human traffickers.
The timing of this declaration raises questions about the government’s handling of the small boats issue, particularly with the termination of the Rwanda deportation scheme and the processing of a backlog of asylum applications that had been put on hold by the Conservatives. Since Sir Keir took office, more than 15,000 individuals have arrived in the UK, surpassing the 13,574 who made the journey while the Tories were in power earlier this year.
The proposed ‘anti-terror’ tactics include measures like shutting down bank accounts, cutting off internet access, and seizing evidence to prevent crimes before they occur. Sir Keir will also be discussing the boat crisis with European leaders at a summit in Hungary later this week. In a statement to the Sun on Sunday, he emphasized the importance of dismantling criminal networks that profit from human suffering and ensuring a secure asylum system and borders.
Despite the surge in arrivals, Chancellor Rachel Reeves anticipates ‘significant savings’ on asylum costs and has reduced the Home Office’s budget. Labour has faced criticism for initiating an ‘asylum amnesty’ by processing refugee claims that were previously stalled by the Conservatives. A Number 10 source emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the issue both domestically and in discussions with European counterparts, stressing the need to dismantle criminal syndicates involved in people smuggling.
The total number of individuals who have crossed the Channel in small boats this year now stands at 30,906, marking a 15.8% increase from last year but a 22.6% decrease from 2023.