Andy Burnham vows to tackle smuggling gangs and reduce small boat crossings
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged to be “relentless” in addressing smuggling gangs as part of a programme aimed at reducing small boat crossings, reports BritPanorama.
During a visit to Dover on Sunday, Burnham emphasized his commitment to the issue, announcing an increase in the number of officers dedicated to combating smuggling operations. He acknowledged that while there has been a significant drop in crossings compared to last year, there remains more work to be done.
“Clearly, progress is being made, but we’re not complacent, and it’s why I am here,” Burnham stated. He highlighted the need for a system that offers safe routes for migrants, which could diminish the appeal of smuggling gangs.
As of Sunday, over 2,000 individuals have crossed the Channel in small boats since Burnham assumed office on July 20. Home Office figures reported that 326 migrants arrived on Saturday, bringing the total to 2,057. This marks a decrease from 1,962 crossings during the same timeframe last year.
Since the beginning of 2025, the number of National Crime Agency (NCA) officers focusing on organized immigration crime has more than doubled from 376 to nearly 800. The government reports seizing over 1,000 small boats and engines since Labour took power in 2024, aimed at disrupting the resources available to smuggling gangs.
Burnham articulated the need for a shift in rhetoric surrounding this issue, urging a focus on practical solutions rather than political blame. “The public don’t like the idea that the border looks like it’s not controlled. We need to bring back that control,” he asserted.
His comments come amidst a broader context of recent events in Ceuta, where more than 60 migrants died after around 60,000 people crossed from Morocco last week. This incident has sparked divisions within the EU, leading Italy to temporarily suspend the Schengen arrangements with Spain.
Burnham confirmed communication with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, stating that nearly all individuals who entered Spanish territory have been returned to Morocco, alleviating immediate concerns. However, he acknowledged ongoing discussions related to the broader implications for the Schengen area.
In response to Labour’s approach, Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp criticized Burnham’s strategy, asserting that the government has not effectively dismantled smuggling operations. “The Conservative plan is to leave the ECHR so all illegal immigrants can be deported with a week of arrival,” he remarked.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, visiting NCA headquarters, reiterated her focus on securing the UK’s borders and emphasized the crucial nature of collaborative work within the NCA. Addressing recent crossing figures, she stated that the increase in NCA personnel reflects their commitment to border security.
The discussion around migration and border control continues to be a contentious issue in British politics, with varying perspectives on the effectiveness of policies and strategies in place. As the situation unfolds, the government’s next steps will be closely scrutinized.
