British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced tougher action against illegal migration as Channel crossings surge and public protests intensify over asylum hotels.
The UK government plans to detain and deport migrants who enter unlawfully, with efforts focused on closing asylum hotels before the next general election. Over 32,000 asylum seekers were housed in hotels in the year to June, according to Home Office data.
Nationwide demonstrations erupted this summer after the arrest of an asylum seeker on serious charges, fueling public anger. Protests were held in London, Skegness, and Gloucester, with several arrests reported.
Britain and France have launched a pilot scheme to return migrants who cross the Channel in small boats, while allowing an equal number of asylum seekers to enter the UK legally. However, the numbers affected are limited compared to the overall influx.
By July 31, more than 25,000 people had crossed the Channel in small boats in 2025, nearly 49 per cent higher than the same period last year, highlighting the scale of the challenge.
[Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed]
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Starmer govt faces pressure as Channel crossings rise and asylum hotels spark protests

UK to Detain and Deport Illegal Migrants

Starmer govt faces pressure as Channel crossings rise and asylum hotels spark protests

August 31, 2025 | 09:07 IST