Shifting Tides: Is Keir Starmer Benefiting from Sunak’s Controversial Small Boats Strategy?

Is Sir Keir Starmer benefiting from Rishi Sunak's strategy on small boats?

The Labour Party plans to address the extensive queue of asylum seekers awaiting the processing of their claims, a situation they have consistently condemned. However, the Conservatives are likely to argue that their strategy was effective.

Political reporter @MhariAurora

Thursday, August 22, 2024, 5:

Conservative representatives are likely to assert that their strategy is effective, as evidenced by a 29% reduction in small boat crossings.

"Stop the boats" became a defining stance for ex-prime minister Rishi Sunak, ultimately contributing to his political downfall.

It was a pledge he couldn't fulfill before the general election, and so it naturally became a tool used against him.

The yearly decrease in these crossings won't alleviate any of Mr. Sunak's remorse over his decision to forego an autumn election.

What insights does this information provide regarding the condition of the UK's asylum framework?

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New statistics from the Home Office reveal that 99% of individuals arriving in the UK via small boats seek asylum. Yet, 96% of these asylum claims remain unresolved.

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This area is one where the Labour Party may focus its criticisms on the former administration.

The Labour Party has consistently pointed out the growing problems with the backlog of asylum applications, promising to hasten the review process to either deport individuals who lack the legal basis to stay, or to enable others to settle, find employment, and add value to the community.

However, these statistics may suggest that Mr. Sunak's strategies are starting to have an impact.

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Mandatory repatriations have increased by 48%, with 87% involving Albanians who must go back as a result of an agreement made by the Conservative government with Albania.

Small boat crossings have decreased compared to last year, and there's also been a reduction in the issuance of work visas, student visas, and visas for dependents of students entering the UK. This aligns with the policies the previous prime minister strongly advocated for.

Following a decrease in the Bank of England's interest rates, alongside economic expansion and a decline in small boat arrivals, Mr. Sunak may feel dismayed that it seems Sir Keir Starmer is benefiting from his efforts.

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