Germany is poised to implement stringent laws aimed at combating the rampant smuggling of migrants to the UK by the end of this year, according to statements from Downing Street. This decision coincides with an agreement between the UK and Germany that encompasses migration, business, and defense topics. Chancellor Friedrich Merz is set to sign this agreement during his inaugural visit to the UK.
Currently, the act of facilitating illegal migration to non-EU countries, including the UK post-Brexit, is not classified as illegal in Germany. The forthcoming legal changes are expected to empower German authorities to penetrate smuggling operations more effectively, targeting sites used to hide small vessels intended for unlawful Channel crossings.
The need for updated legislation in Germany was previously acknowledged under the former government, with Merz now slated to commit to this change by year-end. A BBC investigation last year highlighted Germany’s critical role in facilitating small boat crossings, identifying it as a hub for storing boats and equipment utilized by smugglers.
UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has expressed support for Chancellor Merz's pledge, deeming it vital for disrupting the supply chains of dangerous vessels ferrying illegal migrants across the Channel. Notably, this development follows a UK announcement of a pilot returns scheme with France, during President Emmanuel Macron's state visit. This "one in, one out" arrangement allows for certain small boat arrivals to be returned to France, with the UK accepting a similar number of asylum seekers who have ties to the UK.
As over 21,000 individuals have undertaken the perilous journey across the Channel this year—a 56% surge compared to 2024—Starmer faces increasing pressure to address this crisis. Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp criticized Starmer's initiatives as superficial, claiming the government's lack of control over borders has heightened vulnerability.
The visit will also see discussions surrounding defense and security, particularly regarding support for Ukraine. The leaders are expected to announce a new deal to enhance UK defense exports, generating an anticipated billions in additional economic contributions. Additionally, an agreement to establish a UK-Germany Business Forum is on the table to boost bilateral investments, generating over £200 million worth of commercial projects, thus creating around 600 jobs.
With significant ventures planned, including a defense tech facility by STARK in Swindon, this visit marks a pivotal moment for UK-Germany relations.
Currently, the act of facilitating illegal migration to non-EU countries, including the UK post-Brexit, is not classified as illegal in Germany. The forthcoming legal changes are expected to empower German authorities to penetrate smuggling operations more effectively, targeting sites used to hide small vessels intended for unlawful Channel crossings.
The need for updated legislation in Germany was previously acknowledged under the former government, with Merz now slated to commit to this change by year-end. A BBC investigation last year highlighted Germany’s critical role in facilitating small boat crossings, identifying it as a hub for storing boats and equipment utilized by smugglers.
UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has expressed support for Chancellor Merz's pledge, deeming it vital for disrupting the supply chains of dangerous vessels ferrying illegal migrants across the Channel. Notably, this development follows a UK announcement of a pilot returns scheme with France, during President Emmanuel Macron's state visit. This "one in, one out" arrangement allows for certain small boat arrivals to be returned to France, with the UK accepting a similar number of asylum seekers who have ties to the UK.
As over 21,000 individuals have undertaken the perilous journey across the Channel this year—a 56% surge compared to 2024—Starmer faces increasing pressure to address this crisis. Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp criticized Starmer's initiatives as superficial, claiming the government's lack of control over borders has heightened vulnerability.
The visit will also see discussions surrounding defense and security, particularly regarding support for Ukraine. The leaders are expected to announce a new deal to enhance UK defense exports, generating an anticipated billions in additional economic contributions. Additionally, an agreement to establish a UK-Germany Business Forum is on the table to boost bilateral investments, generating over £200 million worth of commercial projects, thus creating around 600 jobs.
With significant ventures planned, including a defense tech facility by STARK in Swindon, this visit marks a pivotal moment for UK-Germany relations.
