BBC Breakfast’s Jon Kay fired questions at Border Security minister Dame Angela Eagle as he discussed the Government’s latest moves
A Labour minister was left squirming as questions about the migrant crisis were fired at her on BBC Breakfast. Border Security minister Dame Angela Eagle appeared on the show to discuss the Government’s latest moves, which include budgeting an extra £100 million to pay for up to 300 additional National Crime Agency officers as well as new technology and equipment.
It follows news of Sir Keir Starmer announcing a “one in, one out” policy, where several migrants would be returned to their home country if it is safe. Presenter Jon Kay didn’t hold back as he threw questions at the guest politician. He pointed out that last week alone, 1,355 migrants crossed the Channel in small boats before adding: “If that figure of 50 potential returns a week is the right kind of area, we are hardly talking about any denting of the figure over all at all, are we?”
Jon Kay questioned the politician (Image: BBC)
The politician replied, admitting that there has been “no prospect of returning anyone to France.” The Dame added that it is the first time since Brexit that it has been a possibility, and they are working with French colleagues to make it happen as quickly as possible.
She added that their approach to the migrant crisis keeps having to change as “the tactics of the people smugglers change when they realise that particular rules and regulations are in place.” She added: “We have to change our tactics to adapt to the changing tactics of the smuggling gangs.”
Jon then continued his questioning as he asked just how long it would take for things to actually changed. Dame Angela shared that a returns agreement for migrants with France is expected to be signed this week, however, when asked for a timeframe she was left stuttering.
Dame Angela Eagle appeared on BBC Breakfast (Image: BBC)
The politician could not give an exact timeframe for when it would happen, as she simply answered by saying that it would be “soon”.
Fans at home picked up on how uncomfortable she seemed, as they took to X (Twitter) to share their thoughts. One penned: “Most awkward interview with Angela Eagle squirming when questioned about the amount coming here…”
Another added: “This woman is insufferable. How many times does she want to say it’s a pilot scheme? It’s infuriating!”
Meanwhile a third shared: “Anybody concerned about the prospects of ever stopping these boats and reducing the threat to the people of the UK, I’d suggest avoid watching this interview ……utterly hopeless.”
