Small Boat Arrivals Surpass 30,000 Under Starmer

The number of migrants crossing the English Channel in small boats has surpassed 30,000 since the Labour government took office, marking a significant increase in arrivals this year. Home Office data shows that 154 people arrived in the UK recently, bringing the total for the year to 6,796, a 25% rise compared to the same point last year. Critics, including Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp, argue that Prime Minister Keir Starmer's decision to scrap the controversial Rwanda asylum plan has contributed to this surge in crossings, claiming it has resulted in a loss of border control. Meanwhile, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper noted that the increase in crossings is partly due to favorable weather conditions and emphasized the need for stronger measures against human trafficking. The government is also seeking international cooperation, as evidenced by Foreign Secretary David Lammy's recent trip to the Balkans to enhance intelligence-sharing against smuggling operations. Public sentiment remains divided, with some sympathizing with migrants while others express frustration over the government's handling of the crisis.