Ahead of the Labour Party's annual conference, Deputy Leader Lucy Powell addressed the ongoing challenge of small boat crossings in the English Channel. In an interview with BBC local radio, Powell emphasized that there is no simple 'switch' or immediate mechanism available to halt the arrivals of migrants crossing the channel in small boats.

Powell’s remarks come as the government faces continued pressure to manage irregular migration. While the Labour Party has previously criticized the previous administration's approach, Powell’s comments suggest a focus on long-term management rather than a quick legislative or operational fix. The BBC report frames these comments as a manage-expectations exercise, highlighting the complexity of the issue as the party prepares for its high-profile conference. No specific policy alternatives were detailed in the report, nor were specific timelines for a reduction in crossings provided.