05 January 2023 , 21:00
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Just four per cent of voters believe the Tories can tackle the Channel migrant crisis, a poll revealed tonight.
Rishi Sunak has made stopping small boats bringing would-be refugees across the Dover Strait from France. But only one in 25 of the public thinks he can achieve the pledge, according to a People Polling online survey of 1,269 adults for GB News.
A total of 45,756 migrants crossed the Channel to Britain in small boats last year.
In 2021, 28,526 migrants came to the UK using the dangerous route.
The previous year it was 8,404.
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Asked how confident they were the Government could solve the small boats crisis, only just four per cent were “completely” or “fairly” confident, while 57% was not confident at all.
Tens of thousands of migrants made the perilous journey across the Channel last year (AFP via Getty Images)More than half of Conservative voters - 52% - were not at all confident, rising to 72% of Labour supporters.
Politics expert Professor Matt Goodwin said: “This week Rishi Sunak identified resolving the small boats crisis as a priority for his Government in 2023.
“But our numbers show he has an enormous amount of work to do.
Most voters have no confidence in the government on this issue, which we should remember is the third top issue for all voters and the second top issue for Conservatives.
“Unless Rishi Sunak can change these numbers, it really will be game over at the next general election.
“Make no mistake - it’s now make or break on immigration.”