New data released by the Home Office indicates a significant surge in Channel crossings, with 656 migrants arriving in the United Kingdom via small boats on Saturday. This marks the highest daily figure recorded this year, surpassing the previous record of 592 set earlier in March.
Initial reports from GB News had previously estimated 623 crossings for the day; however, the official count has now been revised upwards.
The arrivals occurred across eleven separate vessels. Simultaneously, French authorities reported rescuing over 50 migrants after experiencing difficulties at sea. Notably, a significant number of those aboard refused assistance from the French coastguard and opted to continue their journey despite the perilous conditions.
This latest influx brings the total number of migrants who have crossed into the UK this year to 8,061—a notable increase of over 46% compared to the same period last year. The peak in arrivals occurred in April and represents the highest point since the Channel migrant crisis began in 2018.
More than 31,000 migrants have made the journey from France since Labour took office last July.
The situation presents a challenge to the Prime Minister’s commitment to curtailing illegal crossings and dismantling criminal gangs. Despite promises of action, record numbers continue to attempt this dangerous passage.
A Home Office spokesperson stated:
“We all want to end dangerous small boat crossings, which threaten lives and undermine our border security. The people-smuggling gangs do not care if the vulnerable people they exploit live or die, as long as they pay and we will stop at nothing to dismantle their business models and bring them to justice.”
The spokesperson further emphasized the government’s plan for asylum system reform, highlighting:
- Tougher enforcement powers
- Increased returns—the highest levels in over five years
- A crackdown on illegal employment used by gangs.
“That’s why this government has put forward a serious, credible plan to finally restore order to our asylum system,” the spokesperson concluded.
