People smugglers claim UK Channel crossing is now safe with Labour government in power

Smugglers take advantage of new political climate

People smugglers in France are reportedly telling migrants that it is now safe to cross the Channel into the UK following the change in government leadership. Gangs are organizing overcrowded small boats from Calais and Dunkirk, charging £1500 per person for the perilous journey, taking advantage of the favorable weather conditions.

New policies under Labour government

The new Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, has scrapped the Conservatives’ Rwanda plan and is opting to allow migrants to go through asylum processing to secure the right to stay in the UK. The first small boats crossed the Channel under Starmer's premiership, with the government anticipating a challenging summer ahead.

Crackdown on criminal smuggling

New Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has pledged to target criminal smuggling gangs by launching a specialized Border Security Command taskforce. Messages between gang members offering spots on dinghies to potential passengers have been uncovered, revealing the tactics used by smugglers to lure individuals into the dangerous journey.

Rising number of arrivals

Yesterday's crossings brought the total number of arrivals this year to 13,600, marking a record figure compared to the same period last year. Labour's decision to allow small boat migrants to claim asylum could potentially result in tens of thousands being granted leave to remain in the UK.

Government response and future plans

Keir Starmer's spokesperson emphasized the need to streamline the asylum processing system to prevent delays and reduce the burden on taxpayer-funded accommodations. It remains unclear whether the new policy will only apply to existing migrants or extend to future arrivals via small boats.

Yvette Cooper has announced an audit of the Rwanda scheme initiated by the Conservatives, which has already cost £290 million. The government is reviewing its next steps regarding the scheme and focusing on establishing the Border Security Command to address the issue of illegal arrivals.

Former Tory official Suella Braverman criticized Cooper's approach, warning of increased illegal arrivals and border challenges under the new government. However, Labour remains committed to tackling criminal smuggling networks and reforming the asylum system in the UK.