Conservative MP Chris Philp faced a challenging interview on Times Radio, where his attempt to criticise Labour’s deportation record backfired. Philp ended up acknowledging Labour’s success in deporting illegal migrants and even tried to take partial credit for it.
Labour Outpaces Conservatives in Deportations
During the interview, presenter Kate McCann highlighted that Labour has deported 19% more illegal migrants compared to the Conservatives during a similar timeframe. McCann asked Philp why Labour was succeeding where the Tories had struggled over their 14 years in government.
Philp initially insisted the Conservatives had returned “huge numbers” of people. However, when pressed, he admitted Labour had organised more bespoke returns flights, including some of the largest in UK history.
Accusations of “Easy Returns”
Philp tried to downplay Labour’s efforts, claiming they had focused on “easy returns” to European countries. He argued that few of those deported had crossed the Channel in small boats, suggesting that Labour’s achievements didn’t address the most pressing challenges.
When asked by McCann whether such deportations were still worthwhile, Philp conceded they were, though he continued to accuse Labour of prioritising simpler cases.
Taking Credit for Labour’s Success
In a surprising turn, Philp attempted to claim partial credit for Labour’s recent deportations. He argued that the groundwork for the flights—such as legal preparations and logistical planning—was laid by the previous Conservative government.
“They’re being a little bit cheeky,” Philp remarked, suggesting Labour was benefitting from processes started under Tory leadership.
Labour’s Record
Since July, Labour has overseen over 25 bespoke returns flights, sending migrants back to countries including Albania, Poland, Romania, and Vietnam. This also includes the first-ever chartered flight to Timor-Leste and the largest deportation flight to Nigeria and Ghana.
Despite Philp’s efforts to dismiss Labour’s achievements, their record appears to stand as a stark contrast to the Conservative government’s performance on deportations.
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