Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp has voiced strong criticism of the Prime Minister's approach to the ongoing small boat crossings of the English Channel, stating that the situation is "out of control" and that "more will die this summer" unless decisive action is taken. Philp's remarks follow his firsthand observation of migrant activity on the beaches of northern France.
Philp detailed witnessing approximately 100 individuals, primarily young men from Africa, boarding a boat to cross the Channel. He reported that French gendarmes present at the scene stated they were under orders not to physically intervene to stop the crossings. Philp also claimed to have identified a smuggler who then disembarked and was not apprehended by the authorities when pointed out.
"The truth is that illegal immigrants will keep trying to cross the Channel to Britain unless we end the system of incentives that motivate them to make the journey," Philp wrote. He argued that the perceived likelihood of being housed, fed, receiving money, and being able to work illegally in the UK, coupled with a low probability of deportation, encourages migrants to undertake the dangerous journey.
The Conservative party's proposed solution, according to Philp, involves leaving the European Convention on Human Rights. This, he contends, would enable the swift deportation of all illegal immigrants within a week of their arrival. He also stated that under their plan, migrants would be barred from claiming asylum, making modern slavery claims, receiving legal aid, or pursuing any court action to remain in the country.
Philp drew a parallel to Australia's immigration policies, suggesting that a similar approach there led to a significant reduction in illegal boat immigration. He emphasized the urgency of implementing such measures, stating that "implementing it can’t come soon enough."
Philp's account comes amid a reported surge in arrivals, with approximately 1,500 immigrants reaching the south coast since the current Prime Minister took office. This follows a period of decreased crossings attributed to unfavorable weather conditions.