EU Germany Cracks Down on Smugglers as UK Ties Strengthen

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Germany plans to tighten laws targeting gangs smuggling migrants to the UK, with changes expected by year-end, announced during Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit to Britain. This move makes facilitating illegal migration to the UK a criminal offense in Germany, acting as a deterrent to smugglers exploiting this legal loophole.

 

The announcement is part of a broader UK-Germany agreement focused on migration, business, and defence. Once implemented, the new law will allow German authorities to crack down on smugglers using warehouses for boat storage intended for Channel crossings. This decision follows a BBC probe revealing Germany's role in the illegal transportation chain.

 

The UK's Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the initiative, given the rising numbers of Channel crossings. Over 21,000 migrants have made the dangerous journey this year, representing a 56% increase compared to 2024. The new measures are seen as vital in addressing this growing crisis.

 

Meanwhile, the UK's new pilot return scheme with France, part of a "one in, one out" approach, aims to manage small boat arrivals by exchanging asylum seekers with connections to the UK. Opposition leader Chris Philp criticised the government for struggling to manage border control and accused Starmer of offering superficial solutions.

 

Defence-related agreements will also feature prominently during the visit, with plans to boost UK exports of military equipment such as Boxer vehicles and Typhoon jets. This cooperation promises to bring significant economic benefits and job creation in both countries.

 

The visit will see the launch of a UK-Germany Business Forum, promoting investment and leading to commercial deals worth over 8,790,000 THB (£200m), expected to create over 600 jobs. Notably, German defence tech firm STARK plans to open its first facility outside Germany in Swindon, generating 100 jobs.

 

The strengthened bilateral ties signal a significant step forward in addressing mutual concerns while fostering economic growth. The future cooperation between the UK and Germany aims to tackle illegal migration effectively and enhance their defence and business partnerships.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-07-18