Record 8,064 Migrants Cross English Channel in 2025

In the first four months of 2025, the UK has seen a record number of migrants crossing the English Channel, with over 8,000 arrivals, a 46% increase compared to the same period last year. On a single day, 656 migrants arrived, marking the highest daily total so far this year. The Home Office has acknowledged the challenge posed by people-smuggling gangs and emphasized the government's commitment to dismantling their operations and restoring order to the asylum system. Critics, including Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp, have voiced concerns over the government's handling of the situation, accusing them of losing control over border security and failing to effectively address illegal crossings. Efforts to curb these crossings include new enforcement powers and a crackdown on illegal working, although opposition parties argue these measures are insufficient. The ongoing crisis has prompted calls for more decisive action to deter further illegal migration.