Sir Keir Starmer Draws Up "Watertight" Alternative to Tackle Small Boats

Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, has come under fire once again for his changing stance on illegal migration. In a major U-turn, he is reportedly crafting proposals for offshore asylum processing. Despite opposing the government's plan to deport migrants to Rwanda, Sir Keir is determined to show that he takes the issue of small boats seriously. However, senior Tories have criticized his new idea as "warmed-up leftovers."

Tories Accuse Labour of Creating Open Borders

Michael Tomlinson KC, the Minister for Countering Illegal Immigration, has criticized Labour's policy, stating that it does not serve as a deterrent and instead opens the door to increased immigration. He asserts that while Labour wants open borders, the Conservatives are making long-term decisions to reduce illegal immigration. Former minister Brendan Clarke-Smith has also voiced his disapproval, likening trust in Labour's immigration policies to "turkeys voting for Christmas."

Sir Keir's Cost-Effective and Legally Sound Alternative

Labour sources have revealed that Sir Keir Starmer is seeking to present an alternative to the Rwanda deportation plan that is both cost-effective and legally robust, avoiding potential legal challenges. The party aims to implement a scheme that deters illegal immigration while also providing options for genuine refugees to be resettled in Britain. To achieve this, Sir Keir and Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper have enlisted the help of asylum experts and sought advice from former Home Secretary Lord David Blunkett.

Labour's Weak Spot in Small Boat Issue

The Conservative Party views the issue of small boats as a vulnerability for Labour and plans to press shadow frontbenchers on the matter as election campaigning intensifies. Sir Keir Starmer is scheduled to deliver a major speech next week, where he will provide further details on the new plan and kick-start a months-long general election campaign.