More migrants arrived in Dover today, bringing the total number of Channel crossings since Labour took office closer to 50,000, according to official figures.
Border Force vessels Typhoon and Volunteer were observed bringing migrants to Dover port after rescues in the Channel, while the Ramsgate lifeboat intercepted another group in the North Sea.
Government data shows 49,797 migrants have crossed the Channel since the July general election, including 281 who arrived yesterday during favorable weather conditions.
Over 1,000 people have arrived since the UK-France “one-in, one-out” returns agreement became operational last Wednesday, despite government hopes it would reduce crossings.
Political Response
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp criticized the government’s approach, stating: “Labour cancelled the Rwanda deterrent plan before it started with no replacement and numbers have surged. This year so far has been the worst in history for illegal immigrants crossing the Channel.”
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called the situation a “national security emergency” following social media posts about recent crossings.
Last week, Philp questioned the effectiveness of the new returns deal, suggesting it would only see 6% of migrants sent back during its ten-month duration.
Government Position
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer warned potential migrants: “If you break the law to enter this country, you will face being sent back.”
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said migrants would be “throwing away their money if they get into a small boat.”
Current Statistics
Since January, 26,555 migrants have arrived by small boat – a 49% increase compared to the same period last year, representing a record high.
Ongoing Concerns
Protests against migrant accommodation continued over the weekend, with demonstrations outside hotels in Bristol, near Gatwick, and in Bournemouth.
Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick raised concerns about public safety, referencing a recent case where two Afghan asylum seekers were charged in connection with alleged crimes in Warwickshire.
Jenrick called for stronger deportation measures and suggested suspending foreign aid to countries that resist accepting returned migrants, specifically mentioning Pakistan’s £133 million aid package.
The debate over Channel crossings continues as the government seeks to balance humanitarian obligations with border security concerns.
