Yvette Cooper has announced the redeployment of 1,000 staff from the Rwanda scheme to a new immigration enforcement programme. This move will target car washes and beauty salons in immigration raids while focusing on increasing returns of those with no right to be in the country. The new Returns and Enforcement programme aims to ensure rules are respected and enforced, starting with a rise in illegal working raids.
In an article in The Sun on Sunday, the home secretary emphasized the government’s efforts to crack down on employers who exploit illegal workers, particularly in car washes and the beauty sector. Plans are also in place to expedite asylum decisions and deportations to safe countries.
Labour has prioritized border security, with the establishment of the Border Security Command and recruitment of new cross-border police, investigators, and prosecutors to combat smuggling gangs in the UK and Europe.
During the European Political Community summit, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer discussed illegal migration with European leaders and expressed openness to exploring offshore processing arrangements. However, he faced criticism for scrapping the Rwanda scheme on his first day in office, with opponents arguing it served as a necessary deterrent for migrants.
Ms. Cooper acknowledged the challenges in addressing small boat crossings, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts rather than quick fixes. Since Labour took office, there have been 2,143 detected illegal immigrant crossings in the English Channel, with a total of 15,717 small boat arrivals this year – an increase from previous years.
Tragically, the crossing has resulted in fatalities, with recent deaths recorded. The government remains committed to addressing the issue through diligent work and effective enforcement measures.
PA Media contributed to this report.
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