In response to a surge in Channel crossings and tragic migrant deaths, the UK government proposes stricter measures for suspected people smugglers, including immediate restrictions on their freedoms, with potential prison sentences for violations.
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| The UK government proposes new laws to crack down on people smuggling, including travel bans, phone restrictions, and social media blackouts, aiming to dismantle criminal networks exploiting migrants. Image: UK Parliament |
London, UK - January 3, 2025:
The UK government has unveiled plans to crack down on people smuggling networks with new powers, including travel bans, phone restrictions, and social media blackouts.
The proposed legislation, part of the upcoming Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill, will allow authorities to impose "interim" Serious Crime Prevention Orders (SCPOs) on suspected smugglers. These orders, which can be issued without the approval of the Crown Prosecution Service, will allow for immediate restrictions on suspects' activities, such as access to phones, social media, finances, and contact with certain individuals.
These measures come in response to a surge in Channel crossings, with over 7,000 more migrants crossing the English Channel in small boats in 2023 compared to the previous year. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that these powers are crucial to dismantling "vile gang networks" exploiting vulnerable migrants.
However, the proposals have drawn criticism. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp dismissed the measures as ineffective, advocating for the reinstatement of the controversial Rwanda asylum plan. Concerns about civil liberties were also raised by former Conservative minister Sir David Davis, who described the measures as "unnecessarily draconian."
Breaching an SCPO could result in up to five years in prison. The government hopes these stricter controls will deter people smuggling and help prevent further tragic incidents, as 78 migrants tragically lost their lives in the Channel last year.