The newly formed British government has introduced strict measures to combat illegal immigration, focusing on dismantling smuggling networks and increasing the deportation of undocumented migrants.
This move comes in response to a significant rise in the number of migrants crossing the English Channel to reach the UK.
Favorable weather conditions have contributed to a daily influx of migrants arriving on the British coast in small inflatable boats.
Recently, the number of arrivals has surged, with 200 migrants crossing on Monday, around 500 on Saturday, and an unprecedented 700 on August 11. This marks the highest total since the Labour Party assumed power in early July.
The government has made it clear that securing the nation’s borders and enforcing immigration laws are top priorities.
Efforts to enhance border security and ensure the implementation of immigration policies are underway.
Illegal immigration was a key issue during the recent election campaign, following 14 years of Conservative rule. Upon taking office, the Labour government quickly abandoned the previous administration’s controversial plan to deport migrants to Rwanda.
Instead, the new administration has committed to addressing immigration with a balance of compassion while reducing both legal and illegal migration.
As part of this strategy, the government is intensifying efforts to combat human trafficking. Nearly 100 new intelligence and investigation officers have been added to the National Crime Agency to dismantle smuggling networks and prevent dangerous boat crossings.
The government also aims to increase the deportation of rejected asylum seekers, aiming to return to 2018 levels within the next six months.
An additional 300 officers will be tasked with processing the thousands of rejected asylum applications and carrying out deportations, whether voluntary or forced.
In addition, the Home Office is planning to target employers who hire undocumented migrants. Recent far-right riots in several English towns in early August have brought the issue of immigration to the forefront.
These riots, which targeted hotels housing asylum seekers and shops owned by migrants, have set the stage for what is expected to be intense debates when Parliament reconvenes in September.
