The Metropolitan Police have confirmed the heartbreaking news that the body recovered from the River Thames on April 13 is that of 11-year-old Kaliyah Coa, who had been missing since March 31. Kaliyah was last seen entering the water near Barge House Causeway during a school inset day, prompting an extensive search operation involving multiple emergency services. Despite their efforts, the search concluded with the discovery of Kaliyah's body in Maritime Quay, marking a tragic end to the hopes of her family and the community.

Kaliyah's family has expressed their profound grief and gratitude towards those involved in the search efforts. In a poignant statement, they shared, 'Our hearts are broken and our lives will never be the same. We were blessed to have Kaliyah, even if it was for such a short time.' The family's request for privacy during this difficult period has been echoed by authorities, who have also cautioned against speculation regarding the circumstances of Kaliyah's death.

The mayor of Newham, Rokhsana Fiaz, paid tribute to Kaliyah, describing her as 'a popular pupil who shone bright.' The loss has deeply affected the local school community, where Kaliyah was known for her vibrant presence. The mayor's statement highlighted the collective sorrow of the community and extended condolences to Kaliyah's family, acknowledging the unimaginable pain they are enduring.

An inquest into Kaliyah's death is set to begin on May 2, as the community and her loved ones seek answers and closure. Detective Superintendent Scott Ware, leading the investigation, emphasized the tragedy of losing 'a little girl who was loved by many' and assured continued support for Kaliyah's family. The incident has left a void in the hearts of those who knew Kaliyah, as they remember her as a child whose life was tragically cut short.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer's recent comments on immigration, warning that the UK risks becoming an 'island of strangers', have ignited a fiery debate across the political spectrum. During Prime Minister's Questions, Plaid Cymru's Westminster leader Liz Saville Roberts sharply criticized Starmer's shifting stance on immigration, accusing him of abandoning previous commitments to compassion and dignity for migrants. Starmer's retort, labeling her criticisms as 'rubbish', underscored the heated nature of the exchange.

The controversy stems from Starmer's speech, where he outlined plans to tighten immigration controls, including ending the recruitment of care workers from abroad and increasing English language requirements. These proposals have drawn both criticism and praise, revealing deep divisions within and outside his party. Backbench Labour MPs have expressed concerns, drawing parallels between Starmer's language and historical rhetoric on immigration that has been widely condemned.

Interestingly, Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, offered an unexpected endorsement of Starmer's speech, suggesting that the Prime Minister is 'learning a great deal' from his party. Farage's comments, coupled with his call for the government to declare the situation in the English Channel a 'national security emergency', add another layer to the ongoing debate over the UK's immigration policy and its future direction.

As the discussion unfolds, the contrasting reactions to Starmer's immigration speech highlight the challenges of navigating the complex and often polarizing issue of immigration in the UK. With criticism from within his own party and unexpected praise from political opponents, Starmer's approach to immigration continues to stir debate, reflecting broader societal divisions on how best to manage migration while fostering unity and security.