YVETTE COOPER SEEKS NEW LAW – It will see the prosecution of those who cram dinghies with up to 100 people
In a firm response to the rising threat of dangerously overcrowded migrant boats crossing the English Channel, UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is set to introduce expanded powers under the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill. The new measures will specifically allow for the prosecution of those who contribute to endangering lives at sea by cramming dinghies with up to 100 people, including women and children.
The move comes as small boat crossings this year hit record highs, not just in frequency but in sheer numbers per vessel. Just last week, a dinghy carrying 97 people, including 22 women and 17 children, had to be rescued after spending over ten hours struggling mid-channel.
Speaking on the issue, Ms Cooper expressed deep concern over the risk of people being “crushed at sea,” especially children. She warned that those who “storm a boat, trampling over the bodies of tiny children,” are complicit in endangering others.
The updated legislation aims to give authorities greater power to take action not only against smugglers but also against any individual who contributes to the overcrowding or resists help from lifeguards before attempting the crossing.
