In a significant development for immigration policy in the United Kingdom, the Government has navigated the final challenge to the Illegal Migration Bill in the House of Lords. The bill, aimed at addressing issues related to illegal migration and strengthening border controls, has been the subject of intense debate and scrutiny throughout its passage through Parliament.
What are the aims of the Illegal Immigrants Bill?
The United Kingdom has been grappling with the complexities of immigration and border security for years, and in response to these challenges, the Government introduced the Illegal Migration Bill. This bill is aimed at addressing the issues surrounding illegal migration and increasing border controls, the legislation is an important step towards shaping the country’s immigration landscape.
The bill now awaits Royal Assent which is the final stage of a Bill’s passage through Parliament when the Bill becomes an Act.
The Illegal Migration Bill, first introduced in March 2023, forms a central part of the Government’s broader strategy to tackle illegal immigration and enhance border security. The bill seeks to address various challenges and gaps in the existing immigration system while prioritizing national security and public safety.
What are The Main Provisions?
The bill’s main provisions impose a duty on the Home Secretary to arrange the removal of individuals who breach immigration laws by entering the country illegally, traveling through a safe third country to the UK, and lack proper authorization.
Under the bill, those meeting the removal conditions, along with their family members (including children), must be removed “as soon as is reasonably practicable” unless exceptional circumstances prevent it. The Home Secretary can postpone removal for unaccompanied children but has the power to arrange their removal when they turn 18.
The legislation also establishes a permanent bar on re-entry to the UK, leave to remain, or citizenship for those falling within the scheme, with limited exceptions. If someone qualifies for removal, the Secretary of State must reject any asylum claims they make, as well as any claims alleging human rights breaches upon return to their country of origin.
Individuals facing removal have the option to challenge their orders, arguing the risk of “serious and irreversible harm” if returned to the specified territory. This claim must be brought within one week from their place of detention, although no formal process for this challenge is established, and no Home Office asylum interview will take place.
As the bill advances in Parliament, it remains crucial to balance national security with safeguarding human rights within the immigration landscape. The Government’s aim to deter illegal migration while protecting vulnerable individuals has sparked debates and controversies, making the implementation and impact of the bill a subject of close scrutiny.
Conclusion
The passing of the Illegal Migration Bill through the House of Lords represents a significant turning point for the Government’s immigration reform efforts. With its focus on tackling illegal migration, enhancing border security, and protecting victims of trafficking, the bill seeks to address pressing challenges while ensuring the UK’s immigration system remains efficient, and secure. As the bill progresses to the next stages in the Royal Assent, it will continue to generate debate and scrutiny, with both proponents and opponents closely monitoring its implications for the country’s immigration landscape. If you require legal advice for immigration, Taylor Hampton Immigration Services can help you