Winter Record Broken
Small boat arrivals hit a winter record this week as 609 migrants made the crossing on a single day. They braved the dangerous Channel journey in nine dinghies on Thursday, defying the chilly conditions.
Surpassing Previous Years
This marks the highest daily number of migrant arrivals in any December, January, or February since the crisis began in 2018. Total 2024 boat crossings have now surpassed 34,000, 19 per cent more than the same point last year.
Political Reactions
Sir Keir Starmer's spokesman emphasized the need to reduce these numbers, while the Tories blamed the PM's actions for the increase in illegal migration, citing a lack of a credible deterrent. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philip called it a "day of shame for Labour," criticizing their approach to small boats and immigration.
Government Response
Downing Street defended the government's actions, stating that they inherited the chaos and have put in place a credible plan to tackle the issue, including the establishment of a new Border Security Command to combat smuggling gangs and increase international collaboration.
Concerns and Criticisms
The ongoing debate between political parties regarding immigration policies and border security continues, with both sides pointing fingers at each other for the current situation.
