Army chiefs are preparing to establish migrant camps as part of a concerted effort to combat illegal small boat crossings in the Channel. Logistics teams with experience in creating barracks in war zones are developing plans to swiftly open new facilities on government-owned land, reports BritPanorama.
This initiative comes in response to a record influx of migrants attempting the perilous crossing. The government believes that providing less comfortable accommodation will act as a deterrent to those considering the journey.
A senior government source emphasized the need to address the challenges posed by individuals “asylum shopping” across Europe, seeking the country with the most favorable conditions. “We have been criticized in this country for being too generous — creating a pull factor,” the source said.
In a significant policy shift, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced that those granted asylum will no longer automatically have the right to bring family members to the UK. The government aims to ensure that asylum seekers contribute to the nation’s economy, stating, “There will be no golden ticket to settling in the UK — people will have to earn it.”
Large tracts of land are being evaluated where the Ministry of Defence could construct temporary camps. This approach is intended to reduce reliance on costly hotels currently housing asylum seekers.
A government official reiterated that the need to cut hotel usage is a cross-government effort. “The Army stands ready to help with logistics,” the source stated.
New Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has committed to implementing measures that will further deter migrants, including collaborations with foreign nations. Mahmood has vowed to secure the UK’s borders decisively.
At the upcoming summit of European leaders in Denmark, Prime Minister Starmer will advocate for tightening asylum rules, including deeper restrictions on family reunifications for those granted asylum. Last year, the UK issued over 21,000 visas for family members of refugees, marking a peak not seen since records began in 2005.
Officials assure that genuine refugees fleeing persecution will still receive protection, while new policies will impose stricter requirements on all asylum seekers. Sir Keir Starmer stated: “The current system is not fit for purpose. That is why we’re making fundamental changes to what those granted asylum are afforded in the UK.”
Under these new regulations, asylum seekers will need to work, pay National Insurance, learn English, and maintain good conduct before they can qualify for settlement. This overhaul is positioned as a means to mitigate the appeal that has driven thousands to illegally cross the Channel.
Returns Hubs
Migrant crossings have reached unprecedented levels under the current Labour administration, with over 33,000 arrivals recorded this year alone. Prime Minister Starmer recently finalized a “one-in, one-out deal” with France, allowing the return of 50 migrants weekly, though actual returns have been minimal thus far.
During the summit in Denmark, Starmer will co-chair a migration roundtable and announce a £3 million partnership aimed at addressing migration from the Western Balkans. Additionally, the UK government plans to contribute £5.75 million under Italy’s “Rome Process” to reduce migrant flows from Africa.
The government is also enhancing cooperation with Germany to combat human trafficking networks, with new legislation anticipated to target smugglers more effectively. With winter approaching, authorities expect a last surge of migrants crossing the Channel before sea conditions deteriorate.
