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 in the Channel under his leadership.
During a speech at Interpol’s general assembly next week, the Prime Minister is anticipated to unveil the establishment of a specialized investigation unit that will utilize counter-terror measures to combat people smugglers.
This announcement comes amid scrutiny of the Government’s handling of small boats, including the termination of the Rwanda deportation program and the processing of tens of thousands of asylum applications that were previously on hold by the Conservatives.
Since the beginning of the year until the general election on July 4, 13,574 individuals crossed the Channel while the Tories were in power. However, since Sir Keir assumed office, over 15,000 people have arrived, according to Home Office data.
Sir Keir emphasized the importance of dismantling criminal networks that exploit vulnerable individuals for profit, stating, ‘No more gimmicks or wasted money, these gangs must be stopped, our asylum system brought under control and our borders secured.’
In October alone, more than 5,000 people made the treacherous journey across the Channel, marking it as the busiest month this year. Tragically, 59 migrants have lost their lives in the Channel so far this year, making it the deadliest year since the crisis began in late 2018.
Despite the escalating numbers, Chancellor Rachel Reeves predicts ‘significant savings’ on asylum costs and has reduced the Home Office’s budget. Labour has also faced criticism for initiating an ‘asylum amnesty’ by resuming the processing of refugee claims previously put on hold by the Conservatives.
A spokesperson from Number 10 emphasized the Government’s commitment to tackling the issue at its root and engaging with European leaders to address the problem head-on. The total number of individuals who have crossed the Channel in small boats this year now stands at 30,906, a 15.8% increase from last year but a 22.6% decrease from 2023.