Illegal immigration minister Michael Tomlinson made the frank confession as his party sought to shift focus away from the election date betting scandal and onto migration. Speaking on Times Radio, he was challenged that Rishi Sunak and the Government had not "stopped the boats" which was one of the Prime Minister's five key pledges.
"That is right," Mr Tomlinson responded. "We have not." He insisted that "we have made progress" despite more asylum seekers and economic migrants having risked their lives to cross the Channel in unseaworthy boats so far this year, than in the same periods of 2022 and 2023. He added: "There is a plan and there is a deterrent effect."
He argued the plan to deport people who arrive in "small boats" to Rwanda would be a deterrent.
Denne historien er fra June 25, 2024-utgaven av Evening Standard.
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Denne historien er fra June 25, 2024-utgaven av Evening Standard.
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In the eye of the storm A rich account of Britain's political chaos
Tim Shipman’s fourth and final tome covers Johnson to Sunak, via Truss
Is this government full of amateurs?
Labour's hard landing has revealed a cabinet struggling with the basics
It's going to be weird when the national anthem plays, but I'm so proud to lead the United States
Emma Hayes closed the book on 12 trophy-laden years at Chelsea with her fifth consecutive Women’s Super League title in May.
Can Guardiola fix 'fragile' City after latest implosion?
Rebuilding his ageing side will bea greater challenge than building it in the first place for one of the greats
London wins battle of the global city brands again...
...but the capital still has plenty of work to do ifit wants to keep that crown
At home with...Earl of East
The duo behind the fragrance brand have made a Leyton new-build their sanctuary
How evolution evolved: the risks and rewards of gene-editing technology
INDIA BLOCKspeaks to paediatrician and TV writer Dr Neal Baer about the controversial advancement
This beloved take on Dickens is a joyful gift that keeps on giving
AIl through a bright, bitter winter day I was smiling because I was coming to see Jack Thorne's adapAtation of Charles Dickens's story again.
Market merrymaking
Bundle up in your warmest coat, hat and mittens to visit the best Christmas markets in the UK.
Festive favourites
Perfect your Christmas spread with a vibrant spin on a seasonal staple.