Overview

• More than 4,600 asylum seekers have arrived in Britain on small boats in the first three months of 2024, setting a new record for the period.
• The increase in crossings adds political pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, with immigration being a major concern for voters.
• Sunak's government continues to push for its plan to deport those arriving without permission to Rwanda, aiming to deter future crossings.
• Overall annual numbers of crossings fell 36% last year from 2022's record, but the recent surge challenges the government's efforts to control the situation.
• The government's Rwanda Bill, intended to facilitate deportations, faces delays in parliament, with no scheduled debate until after the Easter break.