Yvette Cooper refuses to set targets as 900 migrants arrive in just two days
- Over 21,000 migrants have crossed the Channel since July, prompting scrutiny of the government.
- Yvette Cooper confirmed nearly 13,500 removals from the UK since the election but declined to set specific immigration reduction targets.
- Cooper's stance highlights the complexities of immigration and the government's ongoing efforts to address illegal working and improve enforcement.
In recent discussions regarding illegal immigration in the UK, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the complexity of the issue and refused to set specific targets for reducing the number of migrants crossing the Channel. Since July, over 21,000 migrants have made the dangerous journey, which has intensified political scrutiny on the government's immigration policies. Cooper mentioned that nearly 13,500 migrants have been removed from the UK since the election, with a notable increase in both enforcement and voluntary returns, achieving the highest return rate since 2019. Despite the significant removal numbers, questions remain regarding the effectiveness of these measures in addressing the ongoing influx. Cooper is reportedly evaluating potential partnerships with third countries to process asylum claims more efficiently. She acknowledged interest in the Italy-Albania arrangement that aims to fast-track claims from mainly safe countries, indicating a willingness to adapt strategies to improve outcomes. Cooper's comments also highlighted the challenges faced by the government in addressing illegal working, which she described as exploitative and detrimental to legitimate employers. The government has increased operations to combat this issue, with substantial progress noted in arrests and removals. She outlined plans to enhance the capabilities of immigration enforcement officers, intending to tackle both illegal working practices and the smuggling networks that facilitate dangerous boat crossings. The broader context includes political commitments from Labour to enhance return rates for migrants without legal standing in the UK. The Home Office's performance in achieving these figures has faced scrutiny, with comparisons made to previous periods, reinforcing the government's commitment to enhancing border security. Overall, the conversations around immigration remain contentious, with a clear lack of consensus on how to effectively manage the situation going forward.