Yvette Cooper discusses challenges in stopping small boat crossings

Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, addressed the ongoing issue of small boat migrant crossings during an interview on BBC Breakfast. She emphasized the need for urgent action to prevent these dangerous crossings but refrained from providing a specific timeline for when Labour's plan would take effect. Cooper acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating that progress would be incremental and would involve thorough investigations and targeting the engines used by smugglers. Cooper highlighted that people smuggling gangs have profited significantly from these crossings, with estimates suggesting they made millions over a recent weekend. She noted that while there has been a reduction in crossings compared to last summer, the situation remains dire, and these criminal operations have been allowed to thrive for too long. The Home Secretary pointed out the lack of coordinated law enforcement across Europe, which has hindered efforts to combat this criminal industry effectively. She mentioned that the UK government is working closely with other nations, including Italy, to tackle illegal migration and disrupt the operations of smuggling gangs. As Sir Keir Starmer meets with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to discuss strategies for addressing illegal migration, Cooper's comments reflect a broader commitment to improving border security and reducing the number of dangerous crossings in the English Channel. The government aims to implement practical steps to dismantle the networks facilitating these crossings and ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals.