Record Low Crossings

The number of annual migrants crossing the English Channel has fallen for the first time on record, providing a significant victory for Chancellor Rishi Sunak ahead of the upcoming election. Home Office figures reveal that small boat crossings in 2023 were down by more than a third compared to the previous year.

Key Campaign Issue

Stopping small boat arrivals has become a flagship pledge for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who aims to make immigration a key campaign issue in his bid to remain in No10. While his Rwanda plan has encountered legal obstacles, Sunak has celebrated a £500 million deal with France to bolster beach patrols and highlighted successful return agreements with countries like Albania, resulting in a significant drop in migrants from the Balkan state.

Experts Warn of Potential Increase

Despite the positive news, experts have cautioned that the decrease in crossings may only be a temporary anomaly. Lucy Moreton, the immigration services union boss, explained that factors such as high winds and larger, more seaworthy boats have contributed to the decline. However, she emphasized the need for continued resources to prepare for potential increases in the future.

"Border Force needs to continue to resource itself – and the country needs to continue to resource itself – to deal with higher numbers," Moreton stated. While it may not reach the peak seen in 2022, experts predict that small boat crossings will surpass the figures of the previous year.