Labour’s newly appointed Home Secretary has cautioned that the UK might halt visa issuance to countries that refuse to cooperate in agreeing to repatriation deals for migrants. Shabana Mahmood revealed that discussions on this matter took place with representatives from the Five Eyes alliance during crucial talks in London concerning border security. Emphasizing the necessity for nations to adhere to regulations, Ms. Mahmood stressed the importance of repatriating individuals without the right to stay in the UK.
The Home Secretary, who assumed office following a recent reshuffle, highlighted the need for coordinated action among Five Eyes countries, including the potential future restriction of visas for non-compliant countries. She emphasized the obligation for countries to comply with rules and take back their citizens if found residing unlawfully in the UK.
In ongoing discussions with counterparts from the US, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, the focus remains on combatting human trafficking, particularly to deter small boat crossings. Ms. Mahmood affirmed the government’s commitment to taking decisive measures to secure the borders, including holding countries accountable for repatriating their nationals.
Pressure mounts on the government to address the asylum system challenges inherited from the previous administration. As of late June, approximately 32,000 individuals were accommodated in hotels while awaiting asylum processing. Opposition leader Keir Starmer urged government officials to expedite the closure of asylum hotels, with senior ministers participating in discussions chaired by the Prime Minister to address this issue.
Considering alternative accommodation options, the government contemplates utilizing defense sites for temporary asylum housing to hasten the transition away from hotel accommodations, which have drawn public scrutiny in recent protests. Minister Luke Pollard mentioned the assessment of military and non-military sites for suitable temporary housing, with the aim of relocating asylum seekers from hotels to such facilities and ultimately closing down all temporary hotel arrangements, as directed by the Prime Minister.
