Labour’s recently appointed Home Secretary has issued a warning that the UK might halt visa issuance to countries that refuse to cooperate on repatriating migrants. Shabana Mahmood stated that she had deliberated on this measure with allies from the Five Eyes group during crucial discussions on border security in London. Mahmood emphasized the importance of joint efforts among nations, particularly in dealing with countries that are reluctant to accept the return of their citizens.
The Home Secretary stressed the necessity for other countries to adhere to regulations and take back individuals lacking the right to reside in the UK. She highlighted the need for coordinated actions among the Five Eyes countries, potentially including the future restriction of visas to encourage compliance with repatriation agreements.
Mahmood is currently engaged in discussions with counterparts from the US, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, focusing on combating people smuggling. Emphasizing a strong stance on border security, she underscored the government’s commitment to enforcing laws and ensuring that countries comply with repatriation obligations.
Increased pressure is mounting on the government to address the challenges in the asylum system inherited from the previous administration. As of the end of June, approximately 32,000 individuals were accommodated in hotels while awaiting asylum processing.
Opposition leader Keir Starmer has urged ministers to expedite the closure of asylum hotels. The government is exploring the possibility of utilizing defense sites as temporary asylum accommodation to hasten the transition away from hotel accommodations, which have recently been the target of protests.
Defence Minister Luke Pollard disclosed plans to evaluate military and non-military sites for potential temporary accommodation solutions. The objective is to relocate asylum seekers from hotels to these alternative facilities, aligning with the Prime Minister’s directive to shut down all asylum hotels.
This proactive approach signifies a comprehensive strategy to address asylum accommodation challenges and streamline the repatriation process, in line with the government’s commitment to border security and effective immigration management.