Photo credit: unn.au
The British government has allocated 100 million pounds to strengthen border security and combat criminal gangs involved in smuggling people across the English Channel.
UNN reports that the funding will support a pilot project of an agreement with France and other initiatives to deter the flow of illegal migrants.
Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, stated that the new investment will give more strength to the implementation of the government’s comprehensive plan to disrupt the business model of smugglers. The plan includes expanding police powers, acquiring the latest technologies and equipment, and recruiting up to 300 new employees for the National Crime Agency.
However, the opposition criticized the initiative. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philip called the plan a “PR stunt” and “desperation for headlines.” He stated that, “Britons deserve action, not empty slogans.”
