In brief
Germany plans to implement stricter laws against people-smuggling gangs facilitating illegal migration to the UK by the end of the year, reinforcing newly formed agreements with the UK.
Germany is stepping up its fight against gangs smuggling migrants to the UK, aiming to introduce tougher legislation by year-end. This move coincides with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's first official visit to the UK, where key agreements regarding migration, defense, and business will be established.Currently, it's not illegal in Germany to assist illegal migration to countries outside the EU, including the UK post-Brexit. The new law would empower authorities to tackle the networks that operate from Germany, which has become a hub for storing boats and engines used in risky Channel crossings.Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has welcomed the commitment, emphasizing the importance of disrupting supply lines that facilitate dangerous journeys across the Channel. As small boat crossings continue to rise—over 21,000 so far in 2024—the pressure mounts on the UK government to address this 'crisis,' according to Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp, who criticized Starmer's proposals as mere distractions.In addition to migration discussions, UK and German leaders will delve into defense cooperation, unveiling plans to boost defense exports, potentially worth billions and creating thousands of jobs. A new UK-Germany Business Forum will also be established to enhance investment between the two nations.Among the announcements coinciding with the Chancellor's visit is a £200 million investment that will create over 600 jobs in the UK, including 100 new positions through the expansion of the defense tech firm STARK into Swindon.
