Reform UK MP Lee Anderson has proposed a three word solution to tackling small boat crossings across the English Channel.

It was declared in October that 2024 had already become the deadliest for migrant crossings between France and the UK.

Home Office figures released today showed that 36,816 people crossed the Channel in small boats in 2024- a jump of 25% from the 29,437 who arrived in 2023.

Now, Mr Anderson has insisted that boats should be returned to France on “the same day” that they attempted the crossing.

The MP for Ashfield told GB News: “I am sick to death – we’ve seen it over Christmas, 1,500 illegal migrants, young males coming into this country. It makes me sick to the pit of my stomach.”

He added: “We saw it a few months back, where actually we did turn the boat back in the English Channel, it went back to France the same day.”

The Reform UK MP also dismissed Labour’s policies to tackle people smuggling, calling the Government’s approach “a load of nonsense”.

Mr Anderson said: “They’re getting put straight into hotels, and we heard the Labour Party bleating on about smashing the gangs, and they’ve arrested somebody who supplies the boats – what a load of nonsense that is.”

He also highlighted Reform UK’s pledge to leave the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), adding: “It’s time to turn these these young men back the same day. That’s the only way you’ll stop them coming is with a deterrent.”

Most Popular Comments

“The solution by Anderson is the only one which makes sense. I am frustrated by the inability of successive governments to address this problem. …” 76

“At last someone talking sense, no-body knows the background or history of the …” 55

“Give them nothing and they will stop coming. Its that simple!!!!” 19

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The last group of people crossing the Channel was made up of 291 people. It arrived on December 29.

Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Dame Angela Eagle, said on December 24: “Border Force and Immigration Enforcement officers work tirelessly to protect the public and keep the UK’s border secure, and this work continues over the Christmas period.

“Officers have faced an unprecedented set of challenges this year, with the new government inheriting the worst start to a year on record for small boat arrivals.

“Despite this, frontline staff have continued to demonstrate the highest levels of commitment and professionalism as they work to keep the public safe, maintain the integrity of the UK’s immigration system and safeguard vulnerable people.

“This work is set to continue as the government intensifies its efforts to reduce the number of individuals crossing the border via dangerous and illegal routes – working to break the business model of people smuggling gangs and ultimately saving lives as part of our Plan for Change.”