South Coast Protests: Uniting Voices for Change in 2023

Overview of Recent Protests

With your permission, Madam Deputy Speaker, I wish to address the recent public order situation following the protests that occurred on the south coast over the weekend. It is important to acknowledge the concerns expressed both within this House and by the public regarding these events, and I appreciate the opportunity to clarify the situation and inform members about the government’s response to the underlying issues associated with these demonstrations.

To begin with the facts, on Saturday morning at approximately 7:30 am, around 150 individuals gathered at the Port of Dover, many of whom were wearing face coverings. Kent Police acted swiftly to manage what they described as a “no-notice” protest. Fortunately, no arrests were made, and the crowd dispersed several hours later, allowing for the restoration of full access to the Port. However, the protest had a noticeable impact on local residents and workers, as well as ferry passengers and motorists who experienced delays during the disruption.

Second Incident in Portsmouth

Turning to the second incident that took place in Portsmouth, a boat carrying around 120 individuals reached British waters near the Isle of Wight on Sunday afternoon, significantly further west than the typical small boat crossings. The RNLI, under the guidance of HM Coastguard, met the vessel and directed it towards Eastney Marina in the broader Portsmouth area.

Later that evening, at approximately 8 pm, over 200 protestors arrived at the harbour with the intention of blocking three coaches set to transport the arrivals for processing. Many protestors were dressed in black attire and wearing face masks. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, supported by neighbouring forces, issued a dispersal notice to ensure public safety. In the face of some aggression, officers resorted to using batons and PAVA spray to maintain order. They worked through the night, and by around 4 am, the protestors had begun to disperse, allowing the coaches to depart without any arrests occurring on the night.

Police Response and Future Actions

Madam Deputy Speaker, incidents of this nature necessitate careful management by police forces, and I would like to express my gratitude to all those involved in the operational responses in Dover and Portsmouth. I am particularly appreciative of the frontline officers whose efforts were crucial in bringing these demonstrations to a close.

This afternoon, I have engaged with key policing partners to review the incidents. As is to be expected following such occurrences, efforts are underway to identify any lessons learned and to ensure that relevant intelligence is shared swiftly across our law enforcement network.

While peaceful protest is a cornerstone of our democracy that must be safeguarded, it is equally important to uphold the rights of citizens to go about their daily lives without undue disruption. There is no justification for threatening behaviour or serious disruption, and I want to make it abundantly clear that any form of disorder will not be tolerated. Those who cross the line from peaceful protest into illegality will face the full force of the law. The government condemns the intimidating and aggressive behaviour exhibited by some protestors this weekend.

Addressing Immigration Challenges

We are collaborating closely with police forces in Kent and Hampshire, along with the National Police Coordination Centre, all of whom have our full support in taking necessary measures to ensure public safety and maintain order. It is essential to recognise the legitimate concerns of law-abiding citizens who are increasingly frustrated by the exploitation of our nation’s generosity by criminal gangs and individuals making illegal and unnecessary journeys to the UK.

It is crucial to remember that the discontent observed in our communities today stems from the chaos and crises that preceded the General Election in 2024. Since taking office, the government has been committed to reforming the broken system we inherited and combating people smuggling. We have doubled the number of National Crime Agency officers dedicated to dismantling organised immigration crime, resulting in a 70% increase in system-wide arrests. We have seized over 1,100 boats and engines and, in cooperation with French law enforcement, have prevented more than 48,000 attempted crossings.

Strengthening Border Security

Our partnership with France has recently been bolstered by a landmark deal signed in April, which secures a 40% increase in French personnel on the ground, bringing the total to over 1,000. This includes enhanced surveillance technology and the establishment of new specialist units. Concurrently, we are working to eliminate the incentives that draw individuals here illegally. Since the election, we have executed over 6,000 small boat returns, marking a 64% increase compared to the last two years of the previous administration. Additionally, we have removed more than 80,000 illegal migrants and foreign criminals from the UK.

As a result of our efforts, this summer witnessed the lowest number of small boat arrivals since 2020, with crossings so far this year down by over 43% compared to last year. While we have made significant progress, we remain vigilant and committed to adapting our strategies in response to any shifts in tactics employed by these criminal gangs. The use of larger boats with over a hundred people on board is a serious concern, and we are prepared for the possibility of crossings occurring in less frequented areas along our coastline.

Commitment to Public Safety

Madam Deputy Speaker, it is clear that the criminal gangs will not retreat quietly; they are responding to the impacts of our initiatives, and we will adjust our enforcement strategies accordingly, both in collaboration with France and in our domestic response. Our foremost priority will always be the safety of the British people. Consequently, we will continue to take decisive action against small boat crossings and the criminal networks behind them, delivering the strong and secure borders that the public rightly expects and deserves.

Simultaneously, we will maintain our close cooperation with police forces to uphold order in our streets. While it is vital to protect our ancient right to free speech, we will not tolerate the disruption of daily life or the intimidation of our communities. I commend this statement to the House.