UK Records Highest December Migrant Crossings

The UK faced a record-breaking day for December migrant crossings as 609 individuals made the dangerous journey across the Channel in a single day, bringing the total for 2024 to over 34,500 arrivals. This marks a 19% increase from last year's figures, despite being down 23% from the 2022 record year. The UK government acknowledges the need to reduce these numbers and has implemented a Border Security Command to tackle smuggling gangs and enhance international collaboration. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philip criticized the government for failing to implement a deterrent, such as the Rwanda scheme, to curb illegal crossings. Meanwhile, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has refused to set a timeline for resolving the crisis, emphasizing a step-by-step approach. The UK is also working with international partners, such as Germany, to strengthen laws against human trafficking as part of a broader strategy to address the issue.