The government aims to outlaw social media advertisements promoting illegal small boat journeys for asylum seekers, establishing a UK-wide criminal offence. Offenders could face up to five years in prison or significant fines. This amendment to the border security bill specifically addresses illegal immigration promotions, including ads for boat crossings and fake travel documents. Home Office data indicates that 80% of migrants used social media to connect with smugglers. Yvette Cooper, the home secretary, criticized the exploitation of vulnerable individuals via misleading online promises, insisting on measures to curb such activities.
Ministers are set to criminalize social media advertisements that promote small boat crossings for asylum seekers, creating a specific offence punishable by up to five years in prison.
The new law will target those creating content that promotes illegal immigration, including ads for small boat journeys and fake travel documents, to deter potential migrants.
Yvette Cooper emphasized the immorality of profiting from vulnerable migrants by selling dangerous journeys and false promises of a better life in the UK.
Eighty percent of recent migrants to the UK reported using social media during their journeys, underlining the platform's role in facilitating migration and communication with smugglers.
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