Starmer and Meloni Discuss Migrant Processing in Italy

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome to discuss strategies for addressing illegal immigration, particularly the influx of migrants crossing the English Channel. Starmer expressed interest in Italy's recent measures that have reportedly led to a significant reduction in migrant arrivals, including a controversial agreement with Albania to process asylum claims there. This meeting has drawn criticism from within Starmer's Labour Party, with members questioning the appropriateness of collaborating with a far-right government. The UK has seen over 22,000 migrants arrive via small boats this year, with recent tragedies highlighting the risks involved. Starmer has rejected the previous government's Rwanda plan but has not ruled out similar offshore processing arrangements, indicating a potential shift in policy. The political landscape remains tense, especially following recent far-right riots in the UK targeting migrant communities.