- Keir Starmer condemns illegal immigration, calling it a major security issue.
- Labour government has deported over 24,000 individuals since July 2024.
- Reform UK and Tories criticize Labour’s approach, calling it ineffective.
The UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has expressed strong frustration over illegal immigration, stating that it “makes me angry.” Speaking at the Organised Immigration Crime Summit, he emphasized that illegal migration is a major driver of global instability and called for international cooperation to combat people-smuggling networks.
Despite Labour’s claims of progress, opposition parties remain unconvinced. Reform UK has labeled the government’s efforts as a “failure,” pushing for a freeze on non-essential immigration and immediate deportations of illegal entrants.
Labour’s Immigration Policy Under Scrutiny
Labour has highlighted the deportation of over 24,000 individuals as proof of its commitment to tackling illegal migration. These returns include asylum-related removals and foreign national offenders. The government claims this is the highest return rate in eight years, showcasing its crackdown on unlawful migration. However, the opposition remains unconvinced, arguing that the rising number of small boat crossings signals a deeper crisis.
Starmer insists that international cooperation is key to addressing illegal migration. Representatives from 40 nations, including France, the US, and China, attended the summit, signaling global recognition of the issue. He likened the fight against people-smuggling gangs to counterterrorism efforts, urging for collective action. Labour’s strategy hinges on fostering diplomatic agreements to enhance border security and disrupt trafficking networks.
Critics, however, view the summit as little more than political posturing. The Conservative Party dismissed it as a “talking shop” that lacks concrete solutions. Reform UK has gone further, demanding stricter measures, including a total freeze on non-essential immigration. They argue that Labour’s approach is insufficient in the face of what they call a “national crisis.”
The numbers tell a mixed story. While Labour touts its deportation statistics, opponents point out that thousands continue to enter illegally, putting strain on public services. The government faces an uphill battle to prove that its policies are not just reactive but truly effective in reducing illegal migration.
The immigration debate remains deeply contentious, with Labour defending its record and the opposition demanding tougher action. As illegal crossings continue, Starmer must demonstrate that his policies can produce lasting change beyond political rhetoric.
“Illegal migration is a massive driver of global insecurity” – Keir Starmer
