Starmer Labels People Smuggling a ‘Crisis’ as He Seeks Comprehensive Migration Deal at France-Led Summit

Starmer calls for measures against migration 'crisis' while pursuing agreement with France

At Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, Sir Keir asserts that "challenge" is an inadequate term for the "horrific business of human trafficking", labeling it a "crissis".

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Thursday, July 18, 2024, 1:

Sir Keir Starmer has declared that human trafficking has escalated from a problem to "a crisis" as he initiated a European conference aimed at reaching an agreement on migration issues.

The prime minister is utilizing the European Political Community (EPC) meeting to advocate for stronger security collaborations and collective measures to address the issue of small boat crossings.

Live Politics Update: COVID Investigation Releases Findings

During the event at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, Sir Keir remarked that "challenge" was not the appropriate term to encapsulate the "vile trade of people smuggling."

"He believes that the situation has reached a critical point," he conveyed to his global colleagues.

"Right now, as we come together, a criminal network operates within each nation present here, capitalizing on human suffering and despair. They are ready to risk the lives of newborns, children, expectant mothers, and other innocent individuals."

Sir Keir spoke out about recent maritime disasters, stating, "Just last week, we lost four lives and, in fact, another just last night in the English Channel. These are stark reminders of the devastating human toll of this despicable business."

—

Latest in Politics

Starmer Proposes Strategy to Tackle Root Causes of Unlawful Immigration

—

Latest in politics: Emergency COBRA sessions convened due to extensive IT disruptions; Zelenskyy embarks on a landmark trip to Downing Street.

UK administration to reinstate financial support for UNRWA in Gaza

He described the summit as a chance to establish a new direction concerning illegal migration through enhanced collaboration, jointly declaring 'enough is enough'.

"We need to pool our resources, exchange information, coordinate strategies, close off the trafficking paths, and dismantle the criminal networks."

Sir Keir faces mounting pressure to address the issue of Channel crossings, following his commitment in his manifesto to establish a new Border Force Command aimed at combating the people smuggling trade. This initiative will be funded by reallocating resources from the recently abolished Rwanda scheme.

The meeting occurs while the recently elected Labour administration seeks to strengthen ties with the European Union (EU) following the disruptions caused by Brexit.

Sir Keir aims to negotiate a security agreement with the EU and resolve various trade issues arising from the Brexit agreement finalized by ex-Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

While there is no anticipated official declaration following the summit, multiple bilateral discussions are scheduled.

Insiders indicate that a statement on immigration issues may be released following a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron later today, with discussions expected to include collaboration with France on managing Channel crossings.

The spokesperson for the prime minister stated that it is not anticipated that Sir Keir will discuss a returns agreement today, emphasizing his focus on strengthening border security.

In his effort to mend ties, Sir Keir personally welcomed around 45 leaders as they entered the 18th-century palace.

Further Reading: Foreign Secretary David Lammy stands by his description of Trump as a 'neo-Nazi sociopath'; Government reallocates substantial funds from Rwanda strategy to establish new Border Security Command.

For an improved video viewing experience, it is recommended to use the Chrome browser

Every nation in Europe, except for Russia and Belarus, has been called to attend the summit, which aims to rally backing for Ukraine amid anticipated escalations in conflict during the summer months.

During his initial speech, Sir Keir emphasized his administration's commitment to the European Convention on Human Rights, contrasting this stance with the previous Conservative government's considerations of withdrawing from the treaty.

He assured European leaders that the UK aims to be a "friend and partner eager to collaborate," emphasizing that while it is no longer a member of the European Union, it remains closely connected to Europe.

The European Union's chief of foreign affairs, Josep Borrell, expressed approval for "the refreshed approach of the UK government," adding, "we are prepared to strengthen our collaboration in foreign and security policy."

The meeting held at Blenheim Palace, where Winston Churchill was born, takes a less formal approach compared to many global conferences.

The dignitaries are set to participate in a gathering organized by the King at the palace's Long Library, an area adorned with over 10,000 books on its walls.

Sir Keir is set to engage in personal discussions with prominent leaders, featuring a dinner with Mr. Macron and a session with his Polish counterpart, Donald Tusk, a former European Council President during the critical moments of Brexit, as he seeks to bolster relationships with European nations.

The European Political Community (EPC) was initiated by Mr. Macron and includes 20 countries outside the EU, along with the 27 member states of the European Union.

It was established following Russia's attack on Ukraine two years earlier.

Sky News Information

Services Offered by Sky News

Television Networks by Sky

Additional Sky Websites