Boz
Its all about perception really and Labour, unless they lurch to the right sharply, will always take an approach to immigration that will not offend their ethnic vote.
If I was eyeing up the UK from across the channel, for example, any Labour plans would not put me off; whereas Reform would scare me, even if the threat is uncertainty.
These plans will not appease the Red Wall, who will switch to Reform at the next GE. They do not care what Starmer does abroad - they see over-immigration at the sharp end and care nothing for the chattering clamour of middle class intelectuals,
Mystic Boz - how wonderful. "... the Red Wall, who will switch to Reform at the next GE". Could you tell me when I will win the lottery, please?
"If I was eyeing up the UK from across the channel, for example, any Labour plans would not put me off"
Interesting. The Labour Party was left to deal with a France that had a law (their country, their laws) that did not allow those policing the coast to enter the water to bring people back to their shore. This meant people could wade out and wait for what was basically a taxi service of boats comimg from further down the coast.
Under the new agreement reached by this government, French coastguards and patrol vessels gain the authority from their government to operate in the water to apprehend or divert boats carrying migrants. They may now facilitate the return or transfer of individuals to shore once intercepted and the agreement strengthens joint patrols and information sharing between French and UK authorities.
This development is yet another of Starmer's small steps to manage migration flows more effectively, reduce dangerous crossings, and enhance border security.
Why do you not know this?