The UK government is set to implement new sanctions targeting the finances of people smuggling networks as the number of small boat crossings in the English Channel increased by 25% in 2024. Home Secretary and Prime Minister emphasize the need to disrupt gangs profiting from this trade. Proposed measures include banning UK financial institutions from dealing with sanctioned groups, alongside new legislation for travel bans and social media restrictions on suspected smugglers. Labour’s Priti Patel criticized the party’s credibility on the issue, citing previous votes against stricter penalties.