Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has announced the creation of a new Border Security Command to tackle people-smuggling gangs bringing migrants across the Channel. This “elite” unit will be led by a former police, military, or intelligence chief and will be granted new powers under the Counter Terrorism Act. These powers will allow officers to conduct stop and searches at the border, carry out financial investigations, and issue search and seizure warrants targeting organised immigration crime. Sir Keir emphasized the need to replace gimmicks with actual efforts to tackle criminal enterprises.
In his speech on the Kent coast, Sir Keir highlighted the vile nature of the people-smuggling trade, which preys on the desperation and hope of vulnerable individuals. He condemned the actions of those who exploit the cracks between institutions to profit from the suffering of others. By focusing on the criminality of such enterprises, Labour aims to tackle the root causes of human trafficking and exploitation.
The recent defection of Dover MP Natalie Elphicke from the Conservatives to Labour has brought attention to the issue of border security. Elphicke cited housing issues and the safety and security of borders as key factors in her decision to switch parties. This move has sparked controversy and debate, with Elphicke’s past comments and political stance coming under scrutiny. However, her concerns about border security resonate with Labour’s approach to addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration.
Sir Keir accused the government of “rank incompetence” on immigration, particularly in its handling of the Rwanda deportation scheme. Labour plans to scrap the scheme and refocus efforts on targeting people-smuggling gangs and clearing the asylum backlog. The new Border Security Command will be funded by diverting £75m allocated for the first year of the scheme, which has faced delays and setbacks since its announcement two years ago. By addressing the failures of the current approach, Labour aims to implement more effective and proactive measures to combat illegal immigration.
Home Office figures show a significant increase in the number of migrants arriving in the UK after crossing the Channel. With over 52,000 people stuck in the asylum backlog and 8,826 migrants arriving in the UK so far this year, there is a pressing need for action. Labour’s focus on dismantling people-smuggling networks and improving border security reflects a commitment to addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration in a comprehensive and effective manner.
Overall, Labour’s proposal to establish a new Border Security Command represents a strategic and targeted approach to tackling illegal immigration and addressing the root causes of human trafficking. By prioritizing the safety and security of borders, Labour aims to create a more robust and resilient system for managing migration and protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation. Through decisive action and strong leadership, Labour seeks to implement meaningful reforms that will enhance border security and uphold the values of justice and human rights.
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