‘Boat gangs ought to concern Keir Starmer’s plan – it is more practical than Rishi Sunak’s pledge’
Rishi Sunak’s pledge to stop all migrant boats was reckless and unachievable. Reducing their number is more realistic.
This is why Keir Starmer’s new Border Security Command, bolstered by using anti-terror tactics, promises more success. Last year’s Illegal Migration Act sought to make cross-Channel asylum seekers inadmissible. But the plan to send them to Rwanda, with its dodgy human rights record, was ruled unlawful by the Supreme Court.
That created a ridiculous situation. Irregular migrants could not stay or be removed – and the backlog grew. In his short time in office, the PM has done more than the Tories ever did. The Rwanda gimmick was scrapped and delayed asylum applications processed.
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Those with a legitimate claim to refugee status can get on with their lives. Those with no right to stay here will be quickly removed. The PM has got 25 returns flights off the ground since the election with thousands of failed asylum seekers on board and more to follow. A Turkish man suspected of supplying hundreds of boat motors to people smugglers was arrested last week.
The Tories spent £700million on Rwanda. Had the scheme gone ahead it would have cost £10billion over six years. Yet there was never any evidence it would be a deterrent. No wonder the Home Office’s top official refused to sign it off as value for money.
The PM reckons the Border Security Command only needs an extra £75m to smash the gangs. That’s a good return for the taxpayer. The boats will not be stopped in the short term. But if crossings are dramatically down next year we will know we’re on the right track.
Bus bonanza
There was some squealing when the £2 cap on bus fares was raised to £3. But at least there is a cap. Under the Tories fares would likely have gone through the roof.
Labour understands just how important affordable buses are to the young, the old and working people. Which is why Transport Secretary Louise Haigh is investing nearly £1bn in them.
It means at-risk routes can be saved and more services added – essential in rural areas where buses are the only way for many people to get around. Bus routes should be based on public need, not private profit. And this extra money will ensure that.
Roll out Emery
The secret is out. The Rolling Stones’ 1974 hit It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll (But I Like It) had a Mother’s Little Helper. It was inspired by the catchphrase popularised by Dick Emery in drag: “Ooh you are awful, but I like you.” And we’re sure both will be with us for all time and Not Fade Away.
