Britain has announced that it will launch the largest overhaul of asylum seeker policy in modern times.
The Labour government has been hardening its immigration policies, particularly on illegal small-boat crossings from France, as it seeks to stem the surging popularity of the populist Reform UK party, which has driven the immigration agenda.
The Home Office (interior ministry) said in a statement that “As part of the changes, the statutory duty to provide support to certain asylum seekers, including housing and weekly allowances, will be revoked.”
The department, led by Shabana Mahmood, said “the measures would apply to asylum seekers who can work but choose not to, and to those who break the law. Taxpayer-funded support would be prioritised for those contributing to the economy and local communities.”
Mahmood is expected to provide further details on Monday about the measures, which the Home Office says are designed to make Britain less attractive to illegal migrants and make it easier to remove them.
“This country has a proud tradition of welcoming those fleeing danger, but our generosity is drawing illegal migrants across the Channel,” Mahmood said. “The pace and scale of migration is placing immense pressure on communities, he added.
More than 100 British charities wrote to Mahmood, urging her to “end the scapegoating of migrants and performative policies that only cause harm”, saying such steps are fuelling racism and violence.
The Home Office said its reforms would be inspired not only by Denmark but also by other European countries, where refugee status is temporary, support is conditional, and integration is expected.
“The UK will now match and in some areas exceed these standards,” the department said.
REUTERS