The "Restoring Order and Control" policy, announced by Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood, intends to discourage migrants from crossing the Channel in small boats.
Many of these reforms will require new legislation and parliamentary approval, where the Labour Party holds a significant majority. The interior ministry plans to end its legal obligation to support asylum seekers "in the coming months."
Other significant changes include extending the wait time for refugees to apply for permanent residency from five to 20 years. These, along with plans to deport families, including children, refused asylum, will undergo public consultation before legislation is drafted, meaning implementation could take longer.
Experts from the University of Oxford’s Migration Observatory note that many crucial details are still undecided, with further consultations and announcements expected.
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A key contentious proposal, modelled on Denmark's system, makes refugee status temporary. Refugees would face reviews every 30 months and could be forced to leave if their home country is deemed "safe."
Critics argue this could be costly, slow down the already backlogged Home Office, and potentially clash with constitutional safeguards, especially regarding vulnerable groups like unaccompanied children and families.
The government maintains it will introduce other legal pathways for asylum seekers, but concerns remain about ending guaranteed benefits for asylum seekers and the implications for children. Policies could also face legal challenges and parliamentary debate, though the Conservative opposition and hard-right Reform UK party have expressed support.
Charities warn that these reforms will not deter those fleeing conflict, suggesting people will continue to risk dangerous journeys. The government, however, insists the changes will make the UK less attractive to migrants and fast-track deportations by allowing only one appeal and legislating for courts to consider only "immediate family" in right-to-family-life challenges. Visa penalties against countries like Angola, Namibia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo have been threatened to encourage returns of "criminals and illegal immigrants," though analysis shows these countries represent a tiny fraction of irregular arrivals.
Analysis: Experts suggest that while the UK's asylum overhaul aims for control, its complex implementation timeline, potential legal challenges, and the inherent drive of people fleeing conflict might significantly test its effectiveness. The true impact on irregular migration remains to be seen amidst these substantial systemic changes.
