Lee Anderson Critiques Labour’s Migration Strategy Amid Rising Crossings

Lee Anderson has expressed strong criticism of the Labour Party’s new migration strategy, which aims to address illegal crossings by introducing a “one in, one out” policy. The Reform UK MP contends that only his party can effectively tackle what he describes as “migration madness.” This response comes following the implementation of a new migrant returns deal between Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron on March 5, 2024.

Labour’s agreement allows for the return of up to 50 individuals per week who arrive illegally by crossing the English Channel. In return, the UK will receive a corresponding number of migrants with family ties in the country. Despite the optimism expressed by Labour, there are concerns regarding the efficacy of this plan in deterring asylum seekers.

Analysts suggest that as many as 85% of attempted crossings would need to be prevented to disrupt the operations of people smugglers. Under the current circumstances, this translates to a mere one in 17 arrivals being returned to France under the new pilot agreement.

The deal has been met with skepticism, particularly as the small boat crossings this year have already surpassed 25,000, representing a 50% increase compared to last year. This trajectory indicates that 2024 could set a new record for crossings.

In a pointed critique, Anderson used social media to mock the Labour plan, tweeting, “17 in 1 out. That’ll teach ’em not to mess with the UK under Labour.” He emphasized that only Reform UK can genuinely resolve the ongoing crisis.

The recent policy stipulates that migrants who have previously attempted to cross the Channel will be disqualified from the scheme. Additionally, asylum seekers submitting human rights claims will be rendered inadmissible under the newly published treaty. It states, “The United Kingdom confirms that at the time of their transfer that person will not have an outstanding human rights claim.”

Anderson’s comments highlight the wider debate surrounding immigration policy in the UK, particularly in light of increasing numbers of crossings. As Labour promotes its new approach, the effectiveness of the strategy remains to be seen, especially as French naval vessels continue to assist migrant dinghies crossing the Channel.

With the situation evolving rapidly, the political implications of these developments are significant. The Labour Party’s strategy is expected to be under scrutiny as they seek to balance humanitarian concerns with national security and public sentiment.