Recent analysis indicates a significant increase in the number of migrants arriving via unauthorized boat routes compared to those who started arriving at the onset of the crisis.
Since December 2018, over 181,326 migrants have reached the UK through these small boat routes, which are referred to somewhat ironically. Notably, this number is now greater than the total number of personnel in the British Army, which stands at around 180,779.
A report from a think tank, shared with Breitbart News, points out that a considerable proportion of individuals arriving via trafficker boats are “military-aged” men, specifically between the ages of 18 and 39.
Alpmehmet, the chairman of Immigration Watch, commented on these findings, stating, “Younger men are flooding into the UK across the Channel. Border enforcement is a basic duty of the government, yet Keir Starmer seems unable to address it. This illegal crossing has turned into a serious political challenge and poses a significant risk to our national security.”
According to recent parliamentary reports, about 77% of the current British military personnel are full-time, with an additional 17% in volunteer reserves. The British Army is the largest division, consisting of roughly 82,000 soldiers, followed by about 33,000 in the Royal Navy and 32,000 in the Royal Air Force.
The data from Migration Watch highlights the ongoing trend of arrivals, particularly in the context of the UK’s lengthy experience with illegal immigration and the fact that few have been successfully deported. It has been noted that nearly all individuals who arrived via smugglers are still in the UK, as only a small percentage have been sent back. Approximately 68% have been granted asylum, and as of 2024, only 3% have been returned to their countries of origin.
