The issue of people-smuggling across the Channel has become a major concern, with gangs exploiting vulnerable individuals in a vile trade that preys on desperation and hope. The criminal enterprises involved in this activity operate in the grey areas of rules and institutions, making it difficult to combat effectively. The current system of border security has proven to be inadequate in addressing the growing problem of organized immigration crime.
Labour, under the leadership of Sir Keir Starmer, is proposing the creation of a new Border Security Command to tackle people-smuggling gangs and enhance border security measures. This elite unit, led by a former police, military, or intelligence chief, will be granted new powers under the Counter Terrorism Act to combat organized immigration crime effectively. These powers will include conducting stop and searches at the border, carrying out financial investigations, and issuing search and seizure warrants targeting criminal enterprises.
The defection of Dover MP Natalie Elphicke to Labour highlights the urgent need for action in addressing the failures of the current government in tackling people-smuggling and providing security at the borders. The ineffective Rwanda deportation scheme, criticized for its inability to provide an effective deterrent, will be scrapped by Labour to focus on targeting people-smuggling gangs and clearing the asylum backlog.
The increasing number of migrants crossing the Channel, with over 8,826 arrivals so far this year, highlights the urgency of addressing the asylum backlog and strengthening border security measures. The backlog of over 52,000 asylum cases further emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and effective strategy to combat people-smuggling and improve border security.
Labour’s proposed Border Security Command will be funded by diverting £75m allocated for the ineffective Rwanda deportation scheme. This new approach aims to replace gimmicks with graft and focus on addressing the root causes of organized immigration crime. By targeting people-smuggling gangs and clearing the asylum backlog, Labour seeks to enhance border security and protect the safety and security of the borders.
The establishment of a new Border Security Command by Labour represents a proactive and strategic approach to combatting people-smuggling and enhancing border security measures. By addressing the failures of the current system and focusing on targeting criminal enterprises, Labour aims to protect vulnerable individuals and improve the effectiveness of border security operations. The proposed measures outlined by Sir Keir Starmer highlight the commitment of Labour to address the challenges posed by organized immigration crime and ensure the safety and security of the borders.
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