Channel crossings surge, challenging Starmer and Macron

Small boat migration to the UK is on track to reach record levels this year, with over 21,000 migrants crossing the Channel already. This surge presents a major challenge for Prime Minister Starmer. The number of migrants crossing the Channel is up 55% compared to the same period last year, despite French authorities preventing approximately 4 in 10 crossings. Starmer is seeking a new deal with France to address the crisis. The issue is central to discussions with French President Macron, who is visiting this week. Last year was the deadliest for Channel crossings, and the UK grants asylum to a majority of small boat migrants.