What's happened
The UK government is intensifying efforts to curb small boat crossings in the Channel, appointing former police chief Martin Hewitt to lead a new Border Security Command. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is in Italy to learn from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's strategies, amid rising tensions over Labour's immigration policies following recent tragedies at sea.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to BBC News, the UK has seen over 24,000 arrivals in 2024, with the government claiming progress in curbing crossings. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the need for international cooperation, stating, 'We will stop at nothing to dismantle their business models.' In contrast, The Guardian highlights internal dissent within Labour regarding Starmer's engagement with Meloni's administration, with some MPs questioning the morality of learning from a 'neo-fascist government.' This tension reflects broader concerns about the balance between security and humanitarian obligations. The Mirror notes that Hewitt's unit will have enhanced powers to combat organized crime, indicating a shift towards a more aggressive enforcement strategy. Overall, the coverage illustrates a complex interplay between political strategy, humanitarian concerns, and public safety.
How we got here
The UK has faced increasing numbers of small boat crossings from France, with over 24,000 arrivals in 2024 alone. The Labour government, under Starmer, has shifted focus from the previous administration's Rwanda deportation scheme to tackling smuggling gangs and exploring international cooperation.
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