New criminal offences and enforcement powers tighten the UK's border-control regime, even where aimed at smugglers rather than migrants directly.

On 7 July 2024, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper launched a new Border Security Command to coordinate the National Crime Agency, intelligence services, police and Border Force against people-smuggling gangs organising small-boat crossings of the English Channel. The accompanying Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill introduced counter-terror-style powers, including offences of up to 14 years' imprisonment for supplying small-boat parts and new powers targeting those who share logistical information aiding smugglers.
On 7 July 2024, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper launched a new Border Security Command to coordinate the National Crime Agency, intelligence services, police and Border Force against people-smuggling gangs organising small-boat crossings of the English Channel. The accompanying Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill introduced counter-terror-style powers, including offences of up to 14 years' imprisonment for supplying small-boat parts and new powers targeting those who share logistical information aiding smugglers.
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New criminal offences and enforcement powers tighten the UK's border-control regime, even where aimed at smugglers rather than migrants directly.