Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has been accused of pushing children towards people smugglers after announcing a temporary suspension of refugee family reunion applications. The move, which takes effect immediately, halts the route that allows refugees granted asylum in the UK to bring relatives to join them until new, tighter rules are introduced next year.
In a statement to MPs, Cooper said the current rules were designed many years ago to help families separated by war, conflict and persecution, but are now being used in a different way. She noted that applications now come in on average around a month after protection is granted, often before refugees have left asylum accommodation, leading to increased homelessness pressures on councils.
Cooper also highlighted that the proportion of migrants arriving on small boats who then apply for family reunion has risen sharply, with signs that smuggler gangs are using the promise of reunion to promote dangerous journeys to the UK. She argued that the current rules are not sustainable and that the government must address immediate pressures on local authorities and risks from criminal gangs.
Refugee charities strongly criticised the suspension. Labour MP Kim Johnson urged the government to adopt more humane policies, including safe routes and the right to remain, rather than scapegoating refugees. Opposition MPs echoed concerns that the move would push vulnerable children towards smugglers.
Cooper said the government still values family reunions and will prioritise family groups under the returns deal with France. The asylum policy statement later this year will set out new rules, including contribution requirements, longer waiting periods, and dedicated arrangements for unaccompanied children. Until then, refugees will be covered by the same family migration rules as everyone else.
