UK Commits £84 Million to Combat Illegal Migration at Its Roots

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has committed £84 million for initiatives in Africa and the Middle East aimed at addressing illegal migration at its source. This substantial investment is focused on education, employment opportunities, and humanitarian aid to tackle the root causes of migration.

European Political Community Summit

Speaking at the fourth European Political Community (EPC) summit, hosted by the UK at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the need for practical solutions over superficial fixes. He and French President Emmanuel Macron concurred that no simple solution exists to stop the illegal crossing of small boats across the English Channel.

Focus on Cooperation

The EPC summit, which includes 27 EU member states and 20 non-members, provided a platform for discussing illegal migration and support for Ukraine. Sir Keir highlighted the necessity of a coordinated European effort to dismantle smuggling gangs, announcing new partnerships with Slovenia and Slovakia to combat organized crime.

New Government Strategies

The Foreign Office has allocated £84 million over the next three years to projects aiding Syrian refugees in Jordan and Lebanon, addressing skills gaps in North and East Africa, and providing humanitarian aid in Sudan. This funding aims to prevent the factors driving people into perilous journeys across the Channel.

Policy Shifts and Border Security

Sir Keir Starmer has abandoned the previous Conservative plan to deport illegal migrants to Rwanda, labeling it an "expensive gimmick." Instead, he proposed establishing a new Border Security Command to integrate Border Force officials, police, and intelligence agencies, leveraging counter-terror powers against people-smuggling gangs. The Prime Minister criticized the former government for its inadequate handling of migration issues, vowing a serious and sustained response to the crisis.

Commitment to International Law

Reaffirming his commitment to international law, Sir Keir stated that the UK would not withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights. He underscored his respect for the law and signaled a reset in relations with European neighbors post-Brexit, aiming for a security agreement to enhance cooperation on intelligence, policing, and trade.

Dialogue with European Leaders

The summit allowed Sir Keir to engage with European counterparts, including Italy's Georgia Meloni and Albania's Edi Rama, discussing innovative migration solutions. While not ruling out offshore processing, he emphasized targeting smuggling gangs as a priority.

Support for Ukraine

The EPC, established after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, continues to focus on supporting Ukraine. Sir Keir Starmer pledged unwavering support for Ukraine, urging European leaders to increase their commitment. NATO's outgoing secretary-general, Jens Stoltenberg, emphasized the long-term nature of the conflict, advocating for sustained support to expedite its resolution.

US Presidential Campaign Context

Against the backdrop of the US presidential campaign, Sir Keir expressed confidence in the UK's ability to work with any elected American administration, reiterating the importance of the UK-US "special relationship." Despite Republican candidate Donald Trump's skepticism about continued US funding for Ukraine, Sir Keir assured continued support for Ukraine's defense.

This summit marks a pivotal moment for Sir Keir Starmer's premiership, setting a new tone in the UK's approach to illegal migration and reinforcing its commitment to international cooperation and support for Ukraine.