UK ‘pull factors’ must be addressed if migrant crisis is to end, Priti Patel urges – watch live

[ad_1]

Priti Patel insists the government will not wait for the Citizenship and Borders Bill to be passed (see 1.15pm).

“The government, the police and the National Crime Agency are taking action at all levels to crack down on people-smuggling gangs. But again, we cannot do this alone.

Patel noted that more than 20,000 people have been arrested this year, adding that the UK has broken up 17 organized criminal groups and arrested more than 400 people.

“This crisis continues, which shows that we need to do more together. This is a complex issue and there is no quick solution to it. It means a massive effort and it would be impossible without the close cooperation of all partners and international agencies.”

Patel is urging Labor MPs to reconsider their opposition to the Citizenship and Borders bill – calling it “a long-term solution to a long-standing problem that successive governments have faced for decades”.

“I hope the whole house together can send a clear message that crossing the canal in this deadly manner, in a small boat, is not the way to get into our country. It is of course illegal, unnecessary and very safe.”

.

[ad_2]