The UK may adopt a transactional visa approach under Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s new migration strategy. At the G7 summit, Starmer revealed plans to tie British visas to foreign nations’ cooperation on asylum returns. This shift comes as Channel crossings surge, with over 16,000 arrivals this year alone.
Moreover, Starmer told reporters the UK must get “smarter” with visas. He suggested rewarding countries that help stop illegal migration. The transactional visa approach could mean stricter rules for nations refusing returns agreements. France, Germany, and Italy are key partners in these talks.
However, critics warn the plan may face legal and diplomatic hurdles. The proposal mirrors past Conservative efforts but with a stronger emphasis on bilateral deals. Starmer stressed collaboration is essential to curb dangerous crossings.
Furthermore, channel migration has jumped 42% compared to 2023. French police intercepted just 58% of boats this year. Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron agreed to boost cooperation. A new French “maritime doctrine” will allow interceptions closer to shore starting July.
Meanwhile, smugglers are adapting tactics. Gangs now use “taxi boats” to pick up migrants at sea, evading police. Recent clashes in Calais saw migrants throwing rocks at officers. French authorities also reported tear gas use during beach confrontations.
The Conservatives accuse Labour of failing to act. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp called the crisis “spiralling out of control.” He dismissed summits and task forces as weak solutions.
Labour scrapped the Rwanda deportation scheme, redirecting funds to border security. Yet crossings since July 2024 exceed 40,000—a 21% annual rise. Starmer insists his transactional visa approach will bring long-term results.
Therefore, the UK-France summit on July 8 may reveal more details. If implemented, the transactional visa approach could reshape migration diplomacy. But with crossings at record highs, pressure is mounting for immediate action.
As debates continue, one thing is clear Starmer’s policies will face fierce scrutiny. Will visa deals slow the boats, or is a tougher strategy needed? The answer may define his premiership.
For more political updates, visit London Pulse News.
