Home Office data reveals the highest single-day migrant arrival rate since labour took power, as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer vows to combat people-smuggling gangs

On Sunday, the UK witnessed an alarming surge in migrant arrivals, with more than 700 people crossing the Channel in 11 boats—a record high since Labour assumed office. According to newly released Home Office data, 703 migrants were detected making the perilous journey on a single day, marking the third highest daily total this year.

The unprecedented figure highlights a troubling trend in the ongoing migrant crisis, with 11 boats arriving, averaging about 64 people per vessel. The surge in crossings underscores the continued challenges faced by authorities in managing the flow of migrants across one of the busiest maritime routes in the world.

Tragically, the day also saw two fatalities. A small boat, which was in French waters, sent a distress signal to the regional coastguard. Despite a swift response involving a helicopter and two boats, the two individuals on board did not survive. Many of the survivors were rescued with severe injuries, including fuel burns, and were returned to France. French authorities are leading an investigation into the deaths.

This latest data brings the total number of small boat arrivals to the UK in 2024 to a provisional 18,342. This figure represents a 13% increase compared to the same time last year, when 16,170 people had made the crossing. However, it is a 3% decrease compared to 2022, which recorded 18,978 arrivals at this point in the year. The peak number of daily arrivals this year was 882 on June 18, with the second highest being 711 on May 1—both occurring before the July 4 general election.

In response to the escalating situation, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to “smash the gangs” responsible for smuggling migrants across the Channel. His government is set to introduce a new Border Security Command, which will be empowered under the Counter Terrorism Act to conduct stop and searches at the border, carry out financial investigations, and issue search and seizure warrants targeting organized immigration crime.

Additionally, Sir Keir has announced an £84 million funding package aimed at African and Middle Eastern countries. This funding is intended to support health, education, and humanitarian initiatives to address the root causes of migration, such as conflict, poverty, and instability. The Prime Minister’s spokesperson acknowledged the challenging summer period for boat crossings and stressed that combating people-smuggling gangs remains a top priority for the government.

Sky News

On Sunday, over 700 migrants arrived in the UK after crossing the English Channel in 11 boats, the highest single-day figure since Labour’s recent administration began. The Home Office reported 703 arrivals on this day, which is the third highest daily total for 2024. The total number of migrants who have crossed the Channel this year now stands at 18,342, marking a 13% increase compared to the same period last year, though a 3% decrease from 2022.

Tragically, two migrants died during the crossing on Sunday. Their small boat, in French waters, sent out a distress signal. French authorities rescued about 50 people from the water, some with fuel burn injuries. These survivors were returned to France, and an investigation into the deaths is underway.

In response to the surge in boat crossings, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has pledged to tackle the people-smuggling gangs. His plan includes creating a new Border Security Command with enhanced powers under the Counter Terrorism Act. This will enable stop and searches at the border, financial investigations, and issuance of search and seizure warrants targeting organized immigration crime. Additionally, £84 million will be allocated to African and Middle Eastern countries to address the root causes of migration through health, education, and humanitarian support.

The summer period is anticipated to bring higher crossing numbers. Starmer’s administration views dismantling smuggling networks and improving border security as crucial priorities to address the ongoing migration crisis.

The Guardian

On August 12, 2024, over 700 migrants crossed the English Channel in 11 boats, marking a peak for the year and intensifying political debate. The crossing resulted in two fatalities, highlighting the ongoing dangers associated with such journeys.

James Cleverly, former Home Secretary and Conservative leadership contender, criticized Labour’s handling of the situation. He claimed that Labour’s removal of the Rwanda deportation plan and failure to establish a fully operational Border Security Command have encouraged people smugglers. Cleverly argued that Labour’s rhetoric and policy changes have contributed to the current crisis, demanding a reversal of these decisions to improve border security.

In related news, Downing Street expressed ongoing vigilance regarding recent far-right violence across England and Northern Ireland, despite a decrease in incidents over the weekend. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned senior politicians who undermined police authority during the unrest, while the Crown Prosecution Service reported significant legal actions related to recent disturbances.

Elsewhere, former Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been approached for a potential executive role with the Daily Telegraph amid discussions about its future ownership. Additionally, a 12-year-old boy has pleaded guilty to violent disorder in Manchester, and unions in Scotland have halted planned strikes following a pay deal.

Overall, the day’s events reflect a blend of urgent political critique, ongoing security concerns, and significant updates on legal and social issues.