UK faces surge in migrant crossings across English channel

Over 700 migrants arrived in the UK after crossing the English channel in 11 boats, marking the highest daily total since the Labour Party took office, Kazinform News Agency correspondent reports.

According to Home Office data released on Monday, 703 people were detected making the dangerous journey, making it the third-highest figure recorded this year.

The 11 boats detected suggest an average of 64 people per vessel. The perilous crossings claimed the lives of two individuals on Sunday when their small boat, still in French waters, sent out a distress signal.

French authorities responded, rescuing around 50 migrants from the boat, many of whom suffered "fuel burn injuries." Those rescued were returned to France, where an investigation into the two deaths is now underway.

As of now, the total number of arrivals in the UK by small boats in 2024 stands at a provisional 18,342, which is 13% higher than the same period last year but 3% lower than in 2022.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to tackle the issue by "smashing the gangs" responsible for people smuggling. His government plans to establish a new Border Security Command, granting officers enhanced powers under the Counter Terrorism Act to conduct stop and searches at the border, financial investigations, and issue search and seizure warrants to target organised immigration crime.

In addition, Starmer announced £84 million in funding for African and Middle Eastern countries to address the migration crisis "at source." The funds will be allocated to health, education, and humanitarian initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of migration.