Archive · 13 Aug 2025
Channel Crossings Rise Since Labour Took Office
Since the new government took office, over 50,000 people have traveled across the English Channel in small boats to the UK.
This number is up almost half compared to last year.
The government wants to stop these crossings and has a plan to deport criminals before their appeals are heard.
One politician suggested sending asylum seekers to Rwanda.
Some people lived in hotels paid for by taxpayers while waiting for their asylum cases to be decided.
Sadly, one person died trying to make the crossing.
Over 50,000 people crossed the English Channel in small boats since July 2024.
Arrivals in the first half of the year were 48% higher than the previous year.
Keir Starmer promised to 'smash the gangs' behind Channel crossings.
A woman died while trying to cross the Channel on Monday.
The Home Office is expanding its 'deport now, appeal later' scheme.
- Who
- People crossing the Channel, the UK Home Office, and government officials.
- What
- Over 50,000 people have crossed the English Channel in small boats since the Labour government took office.
- When
- Official figures released on Tuesday show the crossings since July 2024.
- Where
- English Channel, between France and the UK.
- Why
- Reasons for crossing include seeking asylum and potential human trafficking.
Current Government
Opposition
Policy Effectiveness
Current Government
To stop the boats and 'smash the gangs'
Opposition
Accusations of failure to reduce crossings
- Total Crossings Since July 2024
- 50,271
- Increase in Arrivals
- 48%
- Current Government's Stance
- To 'smash the gangs'
- 'Deport Now, Appeal Later' Scheme
- Expanded
