Andy Burnham has emphasized his commitment to addressing small boat arrivals while indirectly criticizing his political opponents for exploiting the issue for their own gain.
The Prime Minister has promised to take control of the increasing number of people crossing the dangerous waters of the Channel. He highlighted the importance of establishing safe pathways to disrupt the operations of criminal smuggling networks.
During a visit to Dover, Burnham highlighted a significant reduction in the number of crossings, with a 43% decrease compared to the previous year. The total number of arrivals this year stands at 14,526, down from 25,436 last summer.
Burnham stated that although progress has been made, there is no room for complacency. He stressed the need for continuous action and mentioned the importance of safe routes to deter criminal gangs. He also emphasized the necessity of enhancing enforcement measures.
Both Reform and the Conservative Party have capitalized on the small boat crossings issue, with Nigel Farage frequently stoking fears of a migrant “invasion.”
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp has been active during the summer recess, producing videos on small boat crossings. However, his efforts turned comical when he accused a French warship of intimidating him with live rounds during an interview in the Channel.
When asked about changing the tone of the debate, Burnham emphasized the need to address the issue head-on without politicizing it. He underscored the importance of regaining control of the borders while providing support to those in genuine need.
At least 13 individuals have tragically lost their lives attempting to cross the Channel this year, with four fatalities occurring within a 24-hour period last week.
During his visit to Dover, Burnham toured the joint command room where various agencies monitor Channel movements using surveillance drones. He was shown a small boat used by 96 migrants earlier in the year, as well as the surveillance technology employed to detect such activities.
Meanwhile, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood visited the NCA headquarters in Stratford, highlighting the increase in the number of officers combating organized immigration crime, which has nearly doubled from 376 to almost 800.
Mahmood expressed optimism that efforts to address small boat crossings were yielding results but remained determined to tackle the root causes prompting individuals to undertake the perilous journey.
She announced a series of measures aimed at discouraging individuals from coming to the UK, including a controversial proposal to introduce temporary refugee status.
Recent data indicated that 326 individuals arrived on Saturday via four boats, bringing the total number of Channel crossings to 2,057 since Burnham assumed office on July 20. Wednesday marked the busiest day for small boat crossings this year, with 752 migrants arriving in the UK.
Fluctuations in numbers are common due to weather changes, with peak crossings typically observed during the summer months, according to the Home Office.