Government under pressure to tackle rising numbers
A staggering total of 656 migrants made the perilous journey across the Channel on Saturday, marking the highest number for a single day this year. This brings the total number of Channel crossings to 8,064 since the beginning of the year, representing a 46% increase compared to the same period last year.
French coastguard rescues migrants in distress
Amid the influx, the French coastguard reported that migrants on one boat in distress on Saturday refused assistance and continued their journey. However, they were able to rescue 50 others who encountered trouble and safely transported them to Calais.
Government faces criticism over handling of the situation
The UK government is facing mounting pressure to address the escalating numbers, especially after scrapping the Tories' Rwanda deportation plan and investing heavily in a Border Security Command to combat smuggling gangs. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp criticized Prime Minister Keir Starmer for losing control of borders and failing to fulfill promises to tackle criminal groups.
New measures to combat migrant crossings
In a bid to curb the crossings, ministers have introduced measures to sanction firms selling small boats to smugglers. The Foreign Office is collaborating with the marine sector to identify potential red flags, such as large cash payments for equipment, to deter criminals from purchasing vessels for illegal activities.
France urged to take more action
French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau acknowledged the need for France to intensify efforts to prevent dinghies from reaching UK waters. Criticism has been directed at France for escorting boats into British territory, even from close to their own shores.
The Home Office emphasized the shared goal of ending dangerous small-boat crossings, which pose risks to lives and compromise border security.
