Shabana Mahmood has unveiled a series of contentious changes to the UK’s asylum system, stating that illegal migration is causing division in the country.
Among the new policies, individuals granted asylum will have to wait two decades before applying for permanent settlement. Additionally, their status will be reviewed every two and a half years, as announced by the Home Secretary.
Proposals by Ms. Mahmood also include eliminating the legal obligation to support asylum seekers and empowering authorities to confiscate valuables from those arriving by small boats. These measures have faced criticism from Labour backbenchers, human rights groups, and opposition factions.
In response, Richard Tice from the No2 party of Nigel Farage remarked on Ms. Mahmood’s approach, suggesting similarities with another political group. Labour MP Sarah Owen labeled the proposals as “repugnant” and questioned their effectiveness in curbing Channel crossings.
In a policy paper released on Monday, Ms. Mahmood critiqued her predecessors for not taking a firm stance. She emphasized the need for assertiveness in deporting individuals lacking the right to remain in the country.
Under the proposed adjustments, asylum seekers and refugees will receive less generous terms than currently available. A controversial measure involves the potential seizure of valuables, such as jewelry and high-value items like cars and e-bikes, to cover accommodation expenses. However, family heirlooms and wedding rings are exempt from this provision.
The UK Government plans to abolish the compulsory provision of support to asylum seekers, describing it as “automatic handouts.” This change implies that housing and weekly allowances will no longer be guaranteed, transitioning to a discretionary approach where assistance may be denied to those capable of self-sufficiency.
The government contends that the UK’s asylum system attracts illegal migrants seeking benefits. While refugees will retain access to public funds, additional requirements may be imposed for receiving and retaining benefits.
Individuals legally permitted to work in the UK but choose not to support themselves risk being deprived of housing and benefits under the revised guidelines.
Ms. Mahmood confirmed that refugee status will become temporary and subject to periodic review, with refugees being repatriated once their home countries are deemed safe. The duration for attaining permanent settlement will increase from five to 20 years, with settlement criteria to be addressed in an upcoming consultation on earned settlement for both legal and illegal migrants.
Compliance with UK laws is emphasized in the new policy, with repercussions for those engaging in criminal activities or disruptive behavior. Furthermore, the government aims to introduce safe and legal routes to the UK to discourage perilous voyages across the English Channel.
To enhance age verification of asylum seekers claiming to be children, the Home Office plans to implement Facial Age Estimation technology. This system, trained on numerous images, will swiftly determine the accuracy of age claims to prevent minors from being treated as adults.
A new independent body akin to Denmark’s model will be established to expedite deportations, primarily targeting dangerous criminals and individuals with minimal chances of successful asylum claims. Appeals against removals will be limited, and visa bans will be imposed on countries obstructing the return of criminals and failed asylum seekers.
The government also intends to introduce digital ID by 2029, mandating its use to validate the right to work in the UK. Furthermore, the new legislation will address potential deportations following regime changes in migrants’ countries of origin.
The policy reaffirms the government’s commitment to replace asylum hotels with large-scale accommodation sites, similar to initiatives in other European nations. These sites may include repurposed spaces like schools, hospitals, and former airports.