The UK government announced a major UK refugee policy shift today. Consequently, new family reunion applications are now temporarily suspended. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper confirmed this decision. Therefore, refugees must now meet stricter financial requirements. They need an annual income of at least £29,000. They must also provide suitable accommodation for their family.
Previously, a special scheme existed for refugees. It allowed them to bring family members without conditions. Now, this dedicated route is closed. Cooper explained the reasoning behind this UK refugee policy shift. They helped families separated by war and persecution.
However, she argued the system is now outdated. Other European nations have stricter rules. For example, Denmark and Switzerland impose a two-year waiting period. This allows refugees time to find work and housing. In contrast, UK applications often arrived within one month. Many applications came before refugees left asylum housing.
This situation created a strain on local councils. Refugee families often needed help avoiding homelessness. In some areas, they represented over a quarter of homelessness cases. The government hopes this UK refugee policy shift will alleviate that pressure. Changes should be in place by spring.
The opposition criticized the move. Conservative Chris Philp called it a mere “tweak”. He said it is insufficient for the border security crisis. He urged the government to revive the Rwanda deportation plan. Philp also expressed support for peaceful protests against asylum hotels.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the hotel issue. He said he wants to stop using hotels for asylum seekers. He would like to move faster than the 2029 deadline. The only solution is processing claims more quickly he stated.
Additionally, Cooper mentioned interpreting the ECHR differently. The government will review the right to family life in immigration cases. However, they will not withdraw from the European Convention. The Conservatives want the treaty disapplied for immigration. Reform UK supports leaving it entirely.
Finally, returns to France under a new deal will start soon. The first returns are expected later this month. Over 28,000 migrants have crossed the Channel this year. August saw 55 small boat crossings. This was the lowest August figure since 2019.
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