UK Government Unveils People Smuggling Strategy

At the Interpol General Assembly in Glasgow, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlighted the growing issue of illegal migration, stating that Scotland is experiencing its own challenges despite being distant from the English Channel. He announced an additional £75 million for border security, doubling the budget to £150 million, emphasizing the need for international cooperation to combat people smuggling, which he described as a national security threat. Starmer rejected calls for devolving immigration powers to Scotland, reinforcing the UK government's centralized approach to the crisis. He urged global leaders to recognize the severity of the migration challenge and implement counter-terrorism tactics against smuggling gangs. Meanwhile, National Crime Agency head Graham Biggar noted that migrants continue to arrive in Scotland, illustrating the widespread nature of the migration crisis. The ongoing situation has led to political tensions, with opposition leaders criticizing the government's handling of the issue and the Labour party's effectiveness in addressing it.