Rishi Sunak has restated his promise to reduce overall migration to the UK, but hinted at delaying a cap on refugee numbers, while stressing that stopping Channel crossings is his "most pressing priority".
The Prime Minister announced a €72m (£63m) deal with France for joint patrols across the Channel and a 40% increase in joint efforts. He said reducing illegal migration is voters' "absolute priority".
On the refugee cap, Sunak said a conversation about numbers could only happen after progress on small boats. He remains committed to the cap but prioritises border control first.
Sunak opposed ID cards, citing civil liberties and the existing e-visa system. He noted Labour's inconsistency on the issue, after shadow immigration minister Stephen Kinnock revived the proposal.
Despite recruitment challenges in sectors like manufacturing, care and hospitality, Sunak said he wants overall migration to go down over time, but illegal migration remains the most pressing concern.
