Archive · 2 Aug 2026
Burnham Vows Relentless Crackdown on Small-Boat Crossings
Andy Burnham, the UK Prime Minister, said he will fight harder against people‑smuggling gangs that send migrants in small boats across the English Channel.
He wants to stop these dangerous trips and also give people safer ways to come to the UK legally.
The government has added many police officers to the National Crime Agency to do this.
They also plan to cut the money and tools that smugglers use.
In 2026, 13 people died trying to cross the Channel, which made the government act faster.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham pledges tougher action against people‑smuggling gangs behind small‑boat crossings in the English Channel.
The National Crime Agency now has 791 officers focused on organised immigration crime, more than double the 2025 start.
Burnham said the government will combine enforcement with safe, legal routes to weaken smuggling networks.
The government has increased resources to target smuggling networks' financial, equipment, and online operations.
At least 13 people died in Channel crossings in 2026, prompting the renewed focus.
- Who
- UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham
- What
- Pledges tougher crackdown on people‑smuggling gangs behind small‑boat crossings in the English Channel
- When
- During a visit to Dover in 2026
- Where
- Dover, English Channel
- Why
- To reduce dangerous crossings, disrupt criminal networks, and reassure the public that borders are under control
- Prime Minister
- Andy Burnham
- Agency
- National Crime Agency
- Officers
- 791
- Deaths in 2026 Channel crossings
- 13
- Policy focus
- Enforcement + safe legal routes