Home Office staff redeployed to new deportation unit after axed Rwanda scheme

More than 100 staff shifted to tackle illegal migration

Over 100 Home Office staff previously working on the now-defunct Rwanda plan have been reassigned to a rapid returns unit aimed at deporting illegal migrants. This move comes as part of efforts to address the escalating issue of small boat crossings.

PM Sir Keir Starmer sends National Crime Agency operatives to combat people smugglers

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has dispatched National Crime Agency operatives to Europe to assist Europol in combating people smuggling operations. Drawing inspiration from Winston Churchill, Starmer will emphasize the importance of immediate action during his meetings with European allies at Blenheim Palace.

Concerns rise over record numbers of small boat crossings

Sir Keir Starmer has highlighted the concerning trend of an increasing number of small boat crossings, with over 1,000 arrivals since Labour took office. The head of Illegal Migration Operations Command, Stuart Skeates, recently stepped down amidst these challenges.

Debates around handling illegal migrants and asylum claims

As tensions mount, discussions around handling illegal migrants and their asylum claims have intensified. While Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is set to unveil new plans for addressing this issue, Labour emphasizes the need for practical solutions to prevent further influxes of migrants.

Labour's stance on the issue

Labour argues that it is more cost-effective and humane to process asylum claims locally rather than keeping migrants in hotels at a high daily expense. However, Shadow Home Secretary James Cleverly raises concerns about the lack of a deterrent for those arriving illegally, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive strategy.