Official UK government budget reports or announcements

Starmer Doubles Border Security Funding to £150 Million, Vows to Treat People Smugglers Like Terrorists

Nov 4, 2024, 11:08 AM

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declared people smuggling a national security threat and unveiled plans to treat smuggling gangs like terrorists. Speaking at the Interpol General Assembly in Glasgow, Starmer pledged an additional £75 million for the UK's Border Security Command, doubling its funding to £150 million over the next two years. Emphasizing his "personal mission" to dismantle the "vile" smuggling networks, he called for international cooperation to combat the crisis. October saw over 5,400 people crossing the Channel, contributing to a total of 32,000 illegal arrivals this year. The new funding aims to enhance intelligence capabilities, boost enforcement, and invest in state-of-the-art technology to stop the small boat crossings. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced plans to fast-track justice for people smugglers and strengthen border security through partnerships with other countries. Both leaders stressed the need for a coordinated global response, viewing people smuggling as a global security threat similar to terrorism.