More than 25,000 migrants have crossed the English Channel since Sir Keir Starmer became Prime Minister, according to provisional Home Office data. The numbers show that small boat crossings remain a major challenge despite ongoing government efforts to stop them.
On Saturday, 240 people made the journey in four small boats. This raised the total number of crossings for 2025 so far to 1,893. According to analysis by the PA news agency, the overall figure since Keir Starmer took office has now reached 25,135.
The highest number of crossings in a single day this year was recorded on January 13, when 260 migrants crossed the Channel.
Increase in Crossings Compared to Previous Years
The figures show that illegal Channel crossings continue at a high rate. In 2024, a total of 36,816 people reached the UK this way. That was a 25% rise from the 29,437 who arrived in 2023. However, it was still 20% lower than the record 45,774 crossings in 2022.
A Home Office spokesperson said: “We all want to end dangerous small boat crossings, which threaten lives and undermine our border security. The people-smuggling gangs do not care if the vulnerable people they exploit live or die, as long as they pay. We will stop at nothing to dismantle their business models and bring them to justice.”
The Risks Migrants Face
Migrants who cross the Channel take great risks. The journey is dangerous, with many using overcrowded and flimsy boats. The cold water, strong tides, and heavy traffic in the Channel make it one of the world’s most dangerous migration routes.
Several tragic incidents have occurred in recent years. In November 2021, 27 people died when their boat sank. In August 2023, six people drowned after a boat carrying around 65 people got into trouble off the French coast. Despite these dangers, many still attempt the journey, often fleeing war, persecution, or extreme poverty.
Government’s Efforts to Stop the Crossings
The UK government has taken several steps to reduce small boat crossings. They have worked closely with France to increase patrols along the northern French coast. The UK has also passed strict laws to make it harder for people to claim asylum after crossing illegally.
In 2023, the government introduced the Illegal Migration Act. Under this law, migrants who enter the UK illegally are not allowed to stay. Instead, they face deportation to Rwanda or another safe country. However, legal challenges have delayed the plan, and no flights to Rwanda have taken off yet.
The government also wants to make deals with other countries to return migrants who arrive illegally. But critics say these policies are not stopping the crossings. Many believe the UK needs safer legal routes for people seeking asylum.
Pressure on the Government
The increase in Channel crossings puts more pressure on the government to find solutions. Many people worry about the impact on border security and public services. Others argue that asylum seekers should be treated with more compassion and given safer ways to apply for protection.
The issue has also caused tensions between the UK and France. The UK has given France hundreds of millions of pounds to help stop small boats from leaving French beaches. But some politicians say France is not doing enough.
The Future of Migration Policy
With crossings still happening in high numbers, the debate over migration policy continues. Some want stricter laws and stronger enforcement. Others call for a new approach that includes more cooperation with other countries and better legal routes for refugees.
For now, the numbers show that people are still willing to take great risks to reach the UK. As long as conflict, poverty, and lack of opportunities drive migration, the issue is unlikely to go away.
For more updates, visit Coleman News.
