Labour leader criticized for flip-flopping on illegal migration plans; Conservatives slam proposed “Warmed-up leftovers”

In a significant reversal, Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, is under fire once again for changing his approach to tackling illegal migration. The opposition chief is reportedly formulating robust proposals for offshore asylum processing, in what is seen as a departure from his earlier stance.

The Labour leader, while maintaining his opposition to the government’s Rwanda deportation plan, is said to be crafting meticulous strategies to address the small boats crisis. Critics from the Conservative Party have labeled the new proposal as nothing more than “warmed-up leftovers.”

Michael Tomlinson KC, Minister for Countering Illegal Immigration, criticized the Labour policy, asserting that it does not deter small boats and, instead, opens the door to increased immigration. He emphasized the Conservative Party’s commitment to long-term decisions aimed at reducing illegal immigration.

Former minister Brendan Clarke-Smith expressed dismay over what he termed “flip-flopping” by Labour and Sir Keir, highlighting the inconsistency in their approach to asylum seekers and their changing stance on the Rwanda deportation plan.

Labour sources reveal that Sir Keir aims to present a cost-effective, legally sound, and credible alternative to the Rwanda plan, avoiding potential legal challenges and minimizing taxpayer costs. The proposal will include options for rehousing migrants identified as genuine refugees in Britain.

Earlier this year, Labour pledged to address small boat arrivals by signing a new returns agreement with France. However, critics criticized the plan as an open-door route for migrants. Sir Keir Starmer and Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper have sought advice from asylum experts and former Home Secretary Lord David Blunkett for their latest attempt.

Lord David Blunkett emphasized the importance of British officials handling the processing to ensure a scheme that aligns with international conventions.

Sir Keir is resolute that any new plan must have a deterrent effect, be cost-effective, legally bulletproof, and credible. He plans to unveil further details during a major speech next week, kicking off a months-long general election campaign.

As election campaigning intensifies, the Tories consider the small boats issue a significant vulnerability for Labour and intend to press shadow frontbenchers on the matter.