Illegal Migration 2024-03-12
2024-03-12
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question addresses ongoing concerns about small boat crossings and the need for international cooperation.
What diplomatic steps is his Department taking to help tackle illegal migration? Small boat crossings continue to be a massive concern for my constituents, many of whom point out that if those who illegally enter our country from France were returned on the same day, it would significantly reduce the problem. Has my right hon Friend discussed this with her French counterpart and why does France not accept them back on the same day?
We are engaging with international partners on a “whole of route” approach, including a multi-year operational plan with France to stop small boats. The partnership has helped bring down small boat arrivals; together we stopped more than 26,000 crossings last year.
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Assessment & feedback
The exact stance and discussions about immediate returns were not addressed in detail.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Continued concerns over small boat crossings and the logic of same-day returns from France.
My constituents raise significant concerns about small boat crossings. They argue that if those who enter illegally from a safe country like France were returned on the same day, this would greatly reduce the issue. My right hon Friend has discussed this with her French counterpart; why does France not accept them back immediately?
We continue to work collaboratively with our European partners, including France. Our partnership has been effective in reducing small boat arrivals; we stopped more than 26,000 crossings last year.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific stance on same-day returns was not addressed in detail.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Concerns over the need to patrol and police a land border in Northern Ireland.
What discussions has she had with her counterparts in the devolved nations, particularly in the Northern Ireland Assembly and the Police Service of Northern Ireland, about tackling illegal migration? We have a land border that needs to be patrolled and policed.
We continue to engage across international fora to strengthen collaboration. I will ensure my colleague updates the hon Gentleman on the meetings they have had with the PSNI.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific content and outcomes of these discussions were not detailed.
Response accuracy