In a significant move to address the ongoing crisis of illegal migration to the UK, Germany is tightening its laws to combat people-smuggling by the end of this year. Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit to the UK marks an important milestone, as both nations engage in discussions regarding migration, business, and defense. Currently, facilitating illegal migration from Germany to non-EU countries, including the UK post-Brexit, is not expressly illegal. The upcoming changes are expected to empower German authorities in investigating smugglers operating out of warehouses and storage facilities concealing small boats intended for hazardous Channel crossings.
**Germany Strengthens Anti-People Smuggling Laws Amid UK Visit**
**Germany Strengthens Anti-People Smuggling Laws Amid UK Visit**
Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz plans to announce stricter laws against migrant smuggling during his first UK visit, aiming to curb illegal crossings.
These new regulations arise after a BBC investigation showcased Germany's substantial role in the supply chains of small boats used by smugglers. Sir Keir Starmer welcomed the proposed legislative amendments, viewing them as a positive step towards curtailing the risk posed by these dangerous ships. Notably, this announcement comes shortly after the UK unveiled a pilot returns scheme with France, employing a one-in, one-out strategy for asylum seekers arriving by small boats.
The rising figures of over 21,000 crossings this year — a staggering 56% increase compared to the previous year — highlights the urgency for action concerning the Channel crossings situation. Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp criticized Starmer's initiatives, deeming them as mere distractions rather than effective solutions.
In addition to migration policies, the leaders will expand defense cooperation, discussing support for Ukraine and unveiling a new agreement focused on enhancing UK defense exports, which may lead to billions in additional revenue and job creation. This cooperation is mirrored in the establishment of a UK-Germany Business Forum, expected to stimulate investment and foster commercial relationships across both nations. Among the announcements is defense tech firm STARK's plan to create 100 jobs through its new facility in Swindon, representing the company's first expansion into the UK market.
The rising figures of over 21,000 crossings this year — a staggering 56% increase compared to the previous year — highlights the urgency for action concerning the Channel crossings situation. Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp criticized Starmer's initiatives, deeming them as mere distractions rather than effective solutions.
In addition to migration policies, the leaders will expand defense cooperation, discussing support for Ukraine and unveiling a new agreement focused on enhancing UK defense exports, which may lead to billions in additional revenue and job creation. This cooperation is mirrored in the establishment of a UK-Germany Business Forum, expected to stimulate investment and foster commercial relationships across both nations. Among the announcements is defense tech firm STARK's plan to create 100 jobs through its new facility in Swindon, representing the company's first expansion into the UK market.
