Britain in talks with Türkiye to address migration challenges

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed support for exploring Italian-style migration agreements with other countries, including Türkiye, as part of efforts to reduce small boat crossings into the country.

Starmer emphasized the need for a multifaceted approach, stating, “We’ve got to do everything we can on this issue.”

Louise Haigh, U.K.’s secretary of state for transport, was also asked about the reports, replying: “The prime minister and the home secretary have made no secret that this is an international problem that needs international solutions.”

Financial incentives to prevent asylum-seekers

Starmer did not rule out the potential deals with Türkiye and Vietnam that could involve financial incentives to deter would-be asylum seekers.

While the Labour leader refrained from providing specific details, he acknowledged the importance of tackling the root causes of migration, drawing on models similar to the European Union’s deal with Tunisia and Italy’s agreement with Libya.

UK discusses security and cooperation agreements

The Sunday Times reported ongoing negotiations between the U.K. and nations including Türkiye, Vietnam and the Iraqi Kurdish Regional Government (KRG).

The agreements reportedly would focus on measures to prevent migrant boats from departing. British government sources have downplayed some aspects of these reports, but Starmer did not dismiss the possibility of such talks, maintaining that international solutions are necessary.

Tackling smuggling gangs as a priority

Starmer underscored the importance of targeting smuggling gangs, calling it “the single most effective way of stopping the boats going across the Channel.” He pointed to his experience as chief prosecutor, asserting that organized crime networks can be dismantled through concerted efforts.

“People are making a huge amount of money from these journeys,” Starmer said. “Intercepting and taking those gangs down is hugely important.”

People are making a huge amount of money for the journeys people are making across obviously several countries to the north coast of France.

Intercepting and taking those gangs down is hugely important and it will be one of the biggest disincentives if we can break the gangs that are running these. I have never accepted that these gangs can’t be taken down.

I know I have said this many times but I have worked for five years as chief prosecutor when we took down terrorist gangs, we took down people who were moving guns and drugs and people across borders. I have seen it for myself. I have never accepted the argument that somehow there is this one gang or gangs that can’t be taken down.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer

Home secretary to emulate Italian migration model

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is expected to pursue agreements modeled after Italy’s migration deals, which involve financial contributions to countries in exchange for increased efforts to stop illegal migration at its source.

Cooper is currently in discussions with several governments, including Türkiye, Vietnam, and the KRG, with agreements expected to be finalized by the end of the year.