Prime Minister Keir Starmer held a press conference after the European Political Community summit, where he addressed the immigration issue faced by the UK.
Fourth Summit Hosted by Starmer
Starmer hosted 45 European leaders at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, at the fourth summit of the European Political Community and used this opportunity to lobby for new arrangements for refugees crossing the Channel.
EU and Non-EU Members Join Forces
The EPC included 27 members of the European Union and 20 non-EU members, allowing for an informal forum for cooperation on issues raised.
Aims of Cooperation in Europe
The European Political Community aims to strengthen the links between the EU and non-EU States that share the same European values while increasing cooperation on many topics.
Ukraine and Migration up for Discussion
During the EPC, issues such as the support for Ukraine and the challenges of illegal migration were front runners of discussion.
New Approach for Migration
At the conference, Starmer stressed that he wanted to approach illegal migration with a new method whilst cooperating with Europe on border security and defence.
£84 Million Pledged to Stop Illegal Migration at the Source
Sir Keir Starmer pledged £84 million to fund projects to stop illegal migration in Africa and the Middle East, focusing on “practical solutions” and not “gimmicks.”
Funding to Tackle Leading Causes of Irregular Migration
The funding will aid two significant causes of irregular migration: improving education and employment conditions and strengthening resilience against global disruptions.
Small Boat Crossing Is a Major UK Issue
One of the most significant issues the UK is experiencing is the illegal migration of asylum seekers crossing the Channel in small boats.
Rwanda Scheme Scrapped
The Conservatives had a plan that included sending those who entered the UK illegally to Rwanda, which Starmer has scrapped.
Errors in Scheme Pointed Out
Sir Keir pointed out that the stalled Rwanda scheme was expensive, potentially violated human rights, riddled with legal challenges, and wasted time.
Reset on All Fronts
The PM has a new vision for the UK that involves resetting all aspects, exceptionally resetting relations with EU countries under the Brexit agreement.
UK Not Planning to Rejoin EU
The new government doesn’t want to rejoin the EU but wants to reach a security agreement to tackle border control and trading issues.
“Innovative Solutions” Discussed
Starmer discussed migration solutions with the Albanian PM, including Italy’s plan to send migrants to Albania for processing, as Italy is facing a similar migration issue.
Foreign Secretary Speaks About Migration
Foreign Secretary David Lammy said, “If we are to tackle the rising crisis of migration, we must address why people flee their homes and risk dangerous journeys to the UK and other European countries.”
UK to Work With Europol
The UK plans to work closely with the European police agency Europol to combat people smuggling as part of its plan to increase border security.
Broad Agreement on Migration
After the summit ended, Starmer said there had been a comprehensive agreement on migration, but it would take time to implement it.
Migration Seen as a Crisis
The PM said that the new government could not change the number of small boat arrivals overnight but is dealing with it as a severe crisis with a “serious response.”
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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Aidan Calderbank.