David Lammy plans new sanctions to disrupt people smuggling networks and tackle the migrant crisis in the UK
London: David Lammy is gearing up to roll out some serious new sanctions aimed at hitting the wallets of people smuggling gangs. This move is part of Labour’s strategy to tackle the ongoing migrant crisis.
The goal here is to cut off the cash flow and make it tougher for the ringleaders to cash in on this dangerous trade.
This will be the first time a country has set up a standalone sanctions regime specifically targeting irregular migration and organized immigration crime, according to the government.
Labour is all about international teamwork now, especially after ditching the previous Tory plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda. Sir Keir Starmer is set to chat with France’s Emmanuel Macron about this on Thursday.
Alongside the UK’s new sanctions, the Foreign Office is looking to work closely with global partners to tackle these smugglers.
Interestingly, the number of migrants crossing the Channel in small boats has shot up by 25% in 2024 compared to last year. A total of 36,816 people made the journey this year, up from 29,437 in 2023, though it’s still down from the record 45,774 arrivals in 2022.
Starmer emphasized that Britain needs to “dismantle the crime gangs” that are making a mockery of our borders. He believes that cutting off the money flow to these smugglers will help “secure UK borders.”
The government is planning to introduce legislation for this new scheme, which should be up and running within the year.
While the details are still being worked out, it looks like the regime will function similarly to other sanctions, meaning asset freezes and travel bans for those suspected of being involved in people smuggling.
This would stop them from using UK banks to move or invest their money.
If this new scheme aligns with the UK’s other sanctions, like those against terrorism or cyber attacks, breaking these rules could lead to serious consequences, including up to seven years in prison.
Lammy’s big speech on Thursday is expected to highlight how this new regime will focus on irregular migration and organized crime to help “secure UK borders in a decade of national renewal.”
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper added that since taking office, they’ve been quick to act against these gangs, working with international partners to track down and disrupt these dangerous networks.
She stated, “With these new sanctions, we will target those profiting off putting lives at risk and disrupt the gangs’ finances, making it harder for them to operate.”
