reuters.com
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Summary

The UK government announced new laws targeting suspected people smugglers, including travel bans, social media restrictions, and limits on phone use, to combat illegal migration and dismantle smuggling networks.

Interior Minister Yvette Cooper said these measures are part of a broader “plan for change” under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has prioritized curbing Channel crossings.

In 2024, over 36,800 migrants made the dangerous journey, with 69 fatalities marking the deadliest year on record.

Critics, including the Refugee Council, argue enforcement has worsened risks and call for safer alternatives.

  • drspodEnglish
    1·
    3 days ago

    “Suspected” people smugglers? So they’re guilty until proven innocent?

    If they’re suspected of people smuggling then they should be investigated, and if there’s evidence they should be charged.

    Upon further reading it turns out they are talking about SCPOs (Serious Crime Prevention Orders) which are documented by the CPS here: https://www.cps.gov.uk/legal-guidance/serious-crime-prevention-orders

    A Serious Crime Prevention Order (SCPO) can be made on application by the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Director of the Serious Fraud Office, the Director of Public Prosecutions for Northern Ireland and the Lord Advocate in Scotland. Applications are made to the Crown Court, if a person has been convicted of a serious offence, or the High Court on standalone application, if the person has been involved in serious crime.