Nick Ferrari left Labour MP Jake Richards stuttering during a tense LBC interview about the government's handling of the UK's migration crisis. The Rother Valley representative claimed Labour had "stopped tens of thousands of attempted crossings" and increased gang arrests, prompting Ferrari to demand specifics.
Ferrari demands arrest figures
"How many have been arrested then? Let's do that," Ferrari cut in. Richards tried to deflect, saying, "Well, Nick, let's deal with the end result of the problem." But Ferrari pressed: "You just said you are smashing the gangs. How many people have been arrested?"
As Richards attempted to explain that "the proof is in the pudding," Ferrari fired rapid questions, causing the MP to stutter. "Nick, Nick hold on. I don't have that number for you, but I have another number for you," Richards said.
MP cites boat crossing drop
Richards offered alternative statistics: "Nick, I have a number of more important numbers for you, which is that this July is the lowest number of boat crossings for six years. We've seen around a 40% reduction in boat crossings." Ferrari retorted, "Over 2,000 people have arrived since Mr Burnham moved into Number 10!"
Richards conceded Labour has "a lot more to do" but insisted they are heading "in the right direction" and working "at pace." He reiterated that "fewer people are attempting to cross the Channel" and mentioned "huge reforms."
Ferrari's frustration and public reaction
Ferrari, visibly frustrated, said, "You're the one who said you're smashing the gangs, not me." After the interview, viewers took to X to criticize Richards. One wrote, "None of them are actual leaders. They are simply mouthpieces spouting a script designed to try and control the narrative… and they are not even good at that." Another added, "Lowest number of boat crossings - might be true. But as usual, it's a lie because the boats are getting bigger." A third tweeted, "Wow, what a clueless response – no answers to anything! Time to step up and be honest; we don't need spin or gaslighting, just some real answers."
