Reform UK has retreated from a key policy proposal. The Reform UK backtracks on its decision to deport child migrants. This clarification follows significant internal confusion. Initially, a senior figure suggested deporting unaccompanied minors. Zia Yusuf outlined a five-year deportation scheme. He said children could be removed later in the plan. However, leader Nigel Farage quickly contradicted this. He stated it is not part of their current plan.
Consequently, the Reform UK backtracks face accusations of a U-turn. The Liberal Democrats criticized the reversal. They said the proposals lack scrutiny and coherence. The policy aimed to deport 600,000 people. It targets adults living illegally in the UK. It also targets future small boat arrivals. The plan involves disregarding international treaties. Specifically, the 1951 Refugee Convention would be set aside.
Furthermore, Farage provided additional details. He said the first phase focuses on single men. Women without children would also be deported. However, women with children present a complication. Farage called this a difficult issue, emphasize Reform UK backtracks on complicated matters concerning women with children. The party is still to determine the best approach, but Reform UK backtracks on its previous hardline stance. He assured these families are not a top priority for removal.
Additionally, Reform promises massive detention expansion. They plan 24,000 new detention spaces. They will build centers in remote areas. The facilities will be basic but not punitive. The party also earmarked £2 billion for deals. This money would persuade countries to accept returnees. British oversea territories are a fallback option.
Meanwhile, small boat crossings continue to rise. This year’s numbers are significantly higher. The government’s current return numbers are much lower. Reform’s plan represents a massive scale-up. Critics question its feasibility and humanity. The backtrack on children highlights the policy’s complexity. The party now seeks to clarify its stance amid the backlash.
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