Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, expressed concerns about the government’s proposed changes to the asylum seeker system, fearing it could leave individuals in a state of uncertainty and hinder their integration. While acknowledging the need for reform, Burnham highlighted worries regarding plans to extend the waiting period for asylum seekers to apply for permanent settlement from five to 20 years.
Under the proposed reform, refugees granted status will undergo a review every two-and-a-half years, potentially facing removal if their home country is deemed safe. Burnham, in response to the extended period for permanent status, emphasized the importance of ensuring individuals have the opportunity to settle and integrate, cautioning that continuous checks on countries of origin could impede the Home Office’s ability to address the asylum backlog.
Acknowledging Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s push for significant reform, Burnham stressed the necessity of a thoughtful debate following the announced measures. Meanwhile, Mahmood defended the proposed changes in Parliament amid criticism from some Labour MPs, including Lord Alf Dubs, who condemned the deportation proposals involving families, including children.
In response to Lord Dubs’ concerns, Mahmood clarified that the focus was on failed asylum seekers rather than refugees, emphasizing a policy for those who do not hold refugee status despite multiple claims and court decisions. She also expressed openness to increasing payments for rejected asylum seekers to encourage voluntary departure from the UK, citing potential cost-effectiveness for taxpayers.
As the debate continues, the government’s proposed asylum system changes have sparked a mix of support and criticism within political circles and advocacy groups.