Sir Keir Starmer is gearing up to label people smuggling as a ‘national security’ concern – following the illegal crossing of more than 15,000 migrants over the Channel during his tenure.
The Prime Minister is set to unveil plans for a specialized investigation unit with counter-terror powers to combat people smugglers at Interpol’s general assembly next week.
However, this announcement comes amidst scrutiny of the government’s handling of small boats, including the cancellation of the Rwanda deportation scheme and the processing of previously stalled asylum applications by the Conservatives.
Since Sir Keir took office, over 15,000 individuals have arrived, according to Home Office data, surpassing the 13,574 who crossed during the Conservative’s term earlier this year.
The proposed ‘anti-terror’ measures by Sir Keir could involve actions like freezing bank accounts, cutting off internet access, and seizing evidence before crimes occur.
He is also scheduled to discuss the boat crisis with European leaders at a summit in Hungary later this week.
In an interview with the Sun on Sunday, Sir Keir emphasized the need to dismantle criminal networks profiting from human suffering and secure borders to prevent further exploitation.
October saw over 5,000 crossings, marking the busiest month of the year, with 59 fatalities recorded in the Channel – the highest death toll since the crisis began in late 2018.
Despite the escalating numbers, 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 resuming processing of refugee claims previously put on hold by the Conservatives.
A source from Number 10 emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the issue at its roots, engaging with European leaders, and cracking down on criminal syndicates facilitating illegal crossings.
The total count of individuals crossing the Channel in small boats this year has reached 30,906, a 15.8% increase from last year but a 22.6% decrease from 2023.