The UK government is set to introduce strict new laws targeting small boat migrants, with reports suggesting they will be banned from claiming modern slavery protections under the proposed measures. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is not expected to overturn key provisions of the Illegal Migration Act, which he previously opposed while in opposition.
As part of the crackdown, Border Force officers will gain expanded powers, including the authority to stop and search migrants arriving in small boats, conduct personal searches, and seize mobile phones and financial assets from suspected people smugglers. The move aligns with a broader counterterrorism-style approach to tackling illegal migration and human trafficking networks.
The upcoming Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill, set to be unveiled on Thursday, will also grant investigators the power to copy and analyze data from seized mobile devices to prosecute those facilitating Channel crossings. These measures reflect a tougher stance on border security and people-smuggling operations.
Additionally, reports indicate that Starmer will uphold a ban on illegal migrants claiming protections under the Modern Slavery Act 2015, despite criticism from within his own party. The Labour government is also expected to maintain the power to detain child migrants for up to 28 days, a policy that has drawn significant opposition from human rights advocates.
Jess Phillips, the safeguarding minister, has been one of the strongest critics of this approach, previously describing the Illegal Migration Act as “a traffickers’ dream, a tool for their control.” She warned that restricting access to modern slavery protections could prevent victims from seeking help and expose them to further exploitation.
With further details expected in the coming days, the new measures signal a firm stance on migration under Starmer’s leadership, as the UK government moves forward with policies that prioritize border security and enforcement.