Yvette Cooper, the UK Home Secretary, is facing growing pressure from MPs after a record number of migrants crossed the English Channel over the weekend. On Saturday alone, nearly 1,200 people arrived in small boats from France — the highest daily figure so far this year.
This increase has raised serious questions about the government’s ability to manage its borders. Defence Secretary John Healey admitted that Britain had “lost control of its borders” and said the number of people-smugglers launching boats from French beaches was deeply concerning.
Cooper appeared before the Home Affairs Committee on Tuesday afternoon to answer urgent questions. Many MPs are demanding action after Home Office data showed that 2025 could see the highest-ever number of Channel crossings if the current trend continues.
Officials warned that the number of “red days” — days with good weather that increase the chance of small boat crossings — has been much higher than usual this year. Between March 2024 and March 2025, there were 182 red days, compared to just 108 during the same time last year.
Ministers said these weather conditions, along with larger boats carrying more people, are part of the reason crossings have surged. The average number of migrants per boat has doubled in four years — from 28 in 2021 to 56 so far in 2025.
According to new Home Office figures, Eritrea was the top country of origin for people arriving in small boats during the first part of 2025. In earlier years, most migrants came from Afghanistan, Syria, Iran, and Vietnam. In 2022, Albania was the leading country.
Many of the migrants say they are fleeing war, poverty, or persecution and view the UK as a safe place because of language ties or family already living there. Despite joint patrols with France, boat launches continue almost daily due to the extensive coastline and limited enforcement capabilities.
Experts warn that if calm weather continues, this year could end with up to 50,000 Channel crossings, matching the record set in 2022. The government claims it is attempting to curb the smugglers by enhancing international cooperation and modifying immigration rules, but so far, the numbers continue to rise.