Keir Starmer, the head of the Labour Party, has recently announced a new approach to diminish small boat migration in the UK by intensifying efforts against smuggling groups. Starmer articulated his party’s strategy during his visit to Dover, describing the need to combat illegal factions across Calais and other countries which refugees utilise to enter the UK.
The stance by the Labour leader demonstrates his commitment to providing a reliable plan to manage illicit and irregular migration. His comments come in the wake of an unexpected defection by Dover MP, Natalie Elphicke, a prominent advocate for stricter border controls from the Conservative party, to the opposition.
Elphicke, who was accompanied by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in Dover for the policy announcement, stated that Sunak had been ineffective in maintaining the security of the borders and was not trustworthy. She emphasised the requisiteness for a “new strategy” to discourage boat crossings.
Addressing their acceptance of Elphicke into the party, Starmer asserted that the invitation epitomised an attempt to promote a more unified approach towards building a better country by inviting people who are align with the party’s objective for national renewal.
Starmer expressed that the incumbent government’s strategy of sending asylum seekers to Rwanda for claiming refuge would be immediately abandoned if his party succeeds in the forthcoming general elections, due later this year. He further criticised the current regime for focusing on political gestures, rather than practical solutions.
He also revealed plans to dedicate a £75-million budget for a new border security command that will collaborate with Europol and other European police departments to enhance security and intelligence distribution. This will also encompass a new command to supervise hundreds of enforcement and intelligence officers.
David Neal, the previous chief border inspector who was dismissed by the home secretary earlier this year, has expressed his willingness to assist the government in enhancing the country’s asylum system and safeguarding its borders.
Speaking to the Financial Times, he stated, “If I’m able to help mend the dysfunctional asylum system in any regard, I would certainly do so. It’s not about partisan politics for me, but about taking responsibility and aiding in the rectification of a crucial aspect of our society that needs to function more effectively.”
This year, the UK has endured a 36% surge in the number of asylum seekers arriving by small boats compared to the same time last year, with the figure now exceeding 8,500.
James Cleverly, the home secretary’s representative, denounced Mr Starmer’s proclamation, labelling it as “old plan posing as new, which essentially is no plan”.
He asserted, “Our focal point has been on dismantling the operational template of the criminal trafficking groups, intercepting the tools necessary for small boat transitions, teaming with European allies to catch and prosecute traffickers, and impede their financial channels.”
-Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2024