The public rightly expects an immigration and asylum system that is fair, controlled and compassionate. We welcome the Government's determination to restore confidence in a system that today works neither for local communities nor for people fleeing war and persecution.
As Parliament considers this Bill, we want to see reforms that address some of the system's biggest shortcomings, including faster, higher-quality asylum decisions, an end to the reliance on expensive and unsuitable accommodation (which would be easier if asylum seekers were allowed to take paid work after 6 months), and more effective and expansive safe and legal routes that help undermine the criminal gangs who profit from human misery.
Those are essential ingredients of an immigration and asylum system that works for everyone. Unfortunately, this Bill does not offer them. Instead it will weaken the rights of asylum seekers in a number of ways.
