Nigel Farage Vows to Leave ECHR and Detain Illegal Immigrants
In a bold statement on Tuesday, Nigel Farage, the leader of Britain’s hard-right Reform UK party, declared that if he emerges victorious in the next general election, the country will break away from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and promptly detain and deport individuals who enter the country illegally.
Cracking Down on Illegal Immigration
Farage’s announcement comes in response to a surge in migrants arriving by boat across the English Channel and mounting public outrage over the government’s use of hotels to accommodate asylum-seekers.
Despite holding only four seats in the House of Commons, Farage’s party has been gaining traction by tapping into public discontent over the government’s failure to curb the influx of migrants.
Public Outcry and Political Momentum
National polls indicate that support for Reform UK matches or even exceeds that of the ruling Labour Party and the Conservatives.
“If you come to the UK illegally, you will be detained and deported and never, ever allowed to stay, period,” Farage asserted during a press conference, reflecting the prevailing sentiment of despair and anger among the public.
A Controversial Stance
Farage, known for linking issues like healthcare and housing to migrant arrivals, characterized the situation as an “invasion” and vowed to take drastic measures if his party assumes power.
Reform UK intends to withdraw from the ECHR, dismiss other rights treaties, and block all asylum claims while ensuring the deportation of unauthorized migrants.
Dealing with the Crisis
The party plans to enhance detention facilities’ capacity and establish agreements with countries like Afghanistan, Eritrea, and Iran to repatriate migrants.
When questioned about potential risks faced by asylum-seekers if sent back to their home countries, Farage argued, “The alternative is to do nothing…We cannot be responsible for all the sins that take place around the world.”
Rising Numbers and Government Response
With over 28,000 individuals crossing the English Channel by boat this year, a 50% increase from last year, and more than 111,000 asylum applications in the past year, the government faces mounting pressure to address the crisis.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has abandoned the previous administration’s plan to send migrants to Rwanda, opting instead for a deal with France to return some individuals who cross the Channel on dinghies.
Controversies and Protests
The government’s decision to house migrants in hotels has sparked protests, with a recent incident of alleged sexual assault intensifying the backlash.
As tensions escalate, demonstrations against immigration policies have erupted, prompting authorities to take action to quell public unrest.
