Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has called on MPs to support the government's sweeping asylum reforms, warning that the current system is 'out of control and unfair' and that failure to act will fuel hatred. The proposals, described as the biggest shake-up in 40 years, include forcing refugees to return to their home country if deemed safe, extending the wait for permanent settlement from five to 20 years for illegal arrivals, and consulting on removing financial support for families with children refused asylum.
Mahmood faced fierce criticism from Labour backbenchers, with former leader Jeremy Corbyn accusing her of imposing 'draconian measures' and trying to appease 'ghastly, right-wing racist forces'. Green MP Carla Denyer said Mahmood was 'attempting to out-Reform' and warned the plans would deepen divisions. However, Reform UK MP Danny Kruger welcomed the rhetoric, saying he 'recognises' the language used by the home secretary.
The proposals have sparked fears of a major rebellion within Labour, with some MPs arguing the measures scapegoat migrants for problems like housing and public service cuts. Mahmood defended the plans, insisting they are about securing safe and legal routes and tackling a 'dreadful inheritance' from the previous government.
Meanwhile, Ireland's Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan said he would closely monitor the changes, noting that over 80% of irregular migrants to Ireland come from Great Britain. He expressed concern that tougher UK rules could increase migration flows to Ireland and pledged to ensure Ireland is not viewed more favourably by asylum seekers.
