Farage Claims 700 Migrants Crossed English Channel as Criticism of UK Government Intensifies

Nigel Farage has claimed that a further 700 migrants crossed the English Channel in small boats today, intensifying political pressure on UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and his Labour government over border control and immigration enforcement.

In a statement posted on his Facebook profile, the Reform UK leader criticised the government’s handling of Channel crossings, describing Sir Keir Starmer as “gutless and useless” in response to the continued arrivals. Farage has repeatedly argued that the UK lacks effective border deterrence and has accused successive governments of failing to stop illegal crossings.

The English Channel remains one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, yet small-boat crossings have continued despite pledges from both Conservative and Labour administrations to reduce numbers. The issue has become one of the most contentious areas of UK politics, with migration figures frequently used as a barometer of government competence and authority.

Labour has previously stated it would take a different approach to migration enforcement, focusing on disrupting smuggling networks and strengthening cooperation with European partners. However, critics argue that crossings have continued at scale, raising questions about whether current policies are delivering tangible results.

The claims made by Farage have not yet been independently verified at the time of writing, but similar figures have previously been confirmed by UK authorities during periods of favourable weather conditions. The Home Office typically releases official daily or weekly data following operational reviews.

The latest remarks are likely to further inflame political debate in Britain, particularly as public concern over migration, housing pressure, and public services remains high. With immigration set to remain a central issue in UK political discourse, pressure is expected to mount on the government to demonstrate visible and effective control of the Channel route.

Aaron Joyce

Newswire, L.T.T Media

Newsdesk

20 December 2025

Reform Leader - Nigel Farage