More Action Promised to Reduce Migration, Says Rishi Sunak

PM Acknowledges the Need for Stronger Measures

Rishi Sunak has pledged to take further action to tackle the issue of soaring migration, following mounting pressure to address the issue. The Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, admitted that more needs to be done to curb the number of arrivals, after days of avoiding the topic.

Record Number of Arrivals Despite Promises

Last year, a record-breaking 745,000 people came to Britain, despite repeated promises from the Conservative Party to reduce net migration. This revelation has forced Sunak onto the defensive, as critics argue that the government has failed to deliver on its commitments.

Admission of Insufficient Progress

Speaking at the Global Investment Summit, Sunak conceded that the government had not done enough to fulfill its promises. He stated that the levels of net migration are too high and need to be reduced to more sustainable levels. While the Office for National Statistics recently reported a slowdown in numbers, Sunak emphasized the need for further action.

Tory MPs Push for Higher Salary Threshold

Conservative MPs are demanding that migrants earn a minimum of £40,000 to be eligible for a visa. This proposal aims to limit the numbers to highly skilled individuals. Former Home Secretary, Suella Braverman, claims that Sunak agreed to this condition during last year's leadership contest but later reneged on the agreement. Braverman's allies also allege that she provided six letters to the Prime Minister with ideas to reduce migration, all of which were ignored.

Home Secretary Faces Scrutiny

James Cleverly, the current Home Secretary, is expected to face tough questions in Parliament today regarding his handling of the Rwanda plan to tackle illegal migration. Cleverly has urged people not to focus solely on the removal scheme, stating that it is not the sole solution to the Channel crisis. Conservative MPs will have the opportunity to grill Cleverly during a Commons session.

Progress Made, but No Silver Bullet

A spokesperson for Sunak emphasized the government's progress in reducing illegal crossings, which have seen a one-third decrease year-on-year. They stated that while the Rwanda migration partnership is a crucial part of the government's strategy, there is no single solution to the issue. The government is also taking action through bilateral returns agreements and increased cooperation with French counterparts.