The UK government is preparing to implement the most significant overhaul of the asylum system in modern times, with plans to revoke financial support for asylum seekers and make refugee status temporary.
Denmark-Inspired Immigration Reforms
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood will announce a comprehensive package of measures on Monday that aims to make Britain less attractive to migrants while simplifying the process of removing them from the country. The reforms draw direct inspiration from Denmark's strict asylum approach, where a progressive administration has successfully reduced incentives for migration and increased deportations.
Senior Home Office officials visited Copenhagen earlier this year to study Denmark's asylum policy framework. The government claims these changes will bring the UK in line with international standards, ending what it describes as Britain's outlier status in asylum provision.
Sweeping Changes to Support System
The centrepiece of the reforms involves revoking the legal duty to provide asylum-seeker support, which was established in 2005 under EU law. This fundamental shift means housing and weekly allowances will no longer be guaranteed for those seeking refuge in Britain.
The changes introduce stricter conditions for asylum seekers who have the right to work but choose not to support themselves. Under the new rules, these individuals could be denied housing and benefits. The government also plans to withdraw support from asylum seekers who break the law.
Temporary Refugee Status and Removal Powers
In a dramatic departure from current practice, refugee status will become temporary and subject to regular review. Officials will be empowered to remove refugees as soon as their home countries are deemed safe to return to.
This contrasts sharply with existing rules, where those granted refugee status receive protection for five years before becoming eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain and eventual citizenship.
The reforms also include measures requiring judges to prioritise public safety over migrants' rights to family life or concerns about potential inhuman treatment in their home countries.
Government and Refugee Response
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood defended the proposals, stating: "This country has a proud tradition of welcoming those fleeing danger, but our generosity is drawing illegal migrants across the channel. The pace and scale of migration is placing immense pressure on communities."
She emphasised that Monday's announcement would represent "the most sweeping changes to our asylum system in a generation" designed to "restore order and control to our borders."
However, the Refugee Council has expressed serious concerns about the potential consequences. Chief Executive Enver Solomon warned: "These harsh and unnecessary plans won't deter people who have been persecuted, tortured or seen family members killed in brutal wars."
Solomon highlighted existing challenges within the system, noting that asylum seekers are currently prohibited from working while awaiting decisions and typically have less than 30 days to find accommodation after receiving refugee status. He argued that making the system "more punitive will not be a deterrent" to those fleeing genuine danger.
The announcement comes amid ongoing political debate about migration levels, with the government facing pressure to address both legal and irregular migration while maintaining Britain's humanitarian commitments.
