The Labour Party is exploring the possibility of processing asylum claims outside the UK if it forms the next government, a spokesman confirmed to the BBC. Sir Keir Starmer has reviewed new plans for Labour's asylum policy, stating he would consider any approach that works.
Multiple senior sources indicated that shadow ministers and officials have discussed overseas processing as part of a broader strategy to deter Channel crossings. However, no detailed plans have been drawn up, and Labour has ruled out deporting asylum seekers to other countries while claims are assessed—a key element of the government's Rwanda scheme.
The Conservatives criticised Labour for lacking a credible plan to stop migrant boats. Minister for Countering Illegal Migration Michael Tomlinson argued Labour's approach was not a deterrent, whereas the Rwanda plan was.
The government's Rwanda policy remains stalled due to legal challenges. The Supreme Court ruled it unlawful in November, and emergency legislation has been drafted. While the bill passed its first vote in December, further votes in the new year could threaten its progress.
A Labour Party spokesman emphasised their priority is to dismantle smuggling gangs rather than focus on processing locations. Momentum, a left-wing Labour group, advocated safe routes for refugees as an alternative to the Conservatives' policies.
