In a dramatic escalation of the Channel migrant crisis, over 900 individuals successfully made the perilous crossing to the UK within a 24-hour period. The Home Office confirmed a total of 15 interceptions on Thursday, with one vessel alone carrying a staggering 70 people.
The mass arrival represents one of the busiest days of the year for Border Force officials and places immediate pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer's fledgling administration. The new government, which has been in power for less than a month, now faces its first major test on a key electoral issue.
Operation and Aftermath
Border Force cutters and auxiliary vessels were deployed throughout the day, navigating the world's busiest shipping lane to intercept the flimsy dinghies. The processing centre in Dover, Kent, was reportedly operating at full capacity as officials worked to handle the influx.
Migrants, including young children, were seen being escorted ashore wrapped in blankets. They now undergo initial health and security checks before being transferred to accommodation facilities, the costs and locations of which remain a contentious topic.
Political Pressure Mounts
This event is set to ignite fierce political debate. The Conservative opposition was quick to criticise, labelling the numbers a sign of Labour's 'soft touch' and demanding immediate action to stem the flow.
During the election campaign, Sir Keir Starmer vehemently criticised the previous government's record on the issue, famously scrapping the controversial Rwanda deportation scheme on his first day in office. He instead promised a new, cross-border law enforcement unit to smash the criminal people-smuggling gangs operating from northern France.
However, with over 900 arrivals in a single day, critics are questioning the efficacy of his new strategy and demanding faster results. The public and media will be watching closely to see how the Prime Minister responds to this significant challenge.
