Since taking office, the government has successfully repatriated over 35,000 individuals lacking legal status in the country, including more than 5,200 foreign national offenders. The enforced returns have reached their highest levels since 2018, with a nearly tripled rate of returns for detainees compared to 2022. Efforts are being made to rectify the challenges left behind by the previous administration.
The Home Secretary and the government have acknowledged the widespread community sentiment calling for the closure of all asylum hotels by the end of the current Parliament. However, the closure process must be managed carefully nationwide to avoid creating issues for other regions and local authorities, leading to the government’s appeal of a recent ruling on the Bell Hotel in Epping.
The number of asylum hotels has decreased from a peak of 400 in 2023, resulting in a significant reduction in daily costs from £9 million to £5.5 million, with just over 200 hotels currently operational. In the first half of this year, the population of asylum seekers in hotels has been reduced by 6,000, marking a 16% decrease.
Overall, asylum-related expenses have decreased by 11%, saving approximately £1 billion in hotel expenditures compared to the previous year. These advancements reflect the government’s commitment to rectifying years of mismanagement and financial waste from the prior administration.
To combat the exploitation of the immigration system by people smuggling networks, the government is implementing reforms to expedite asylum appeals and establish an independent entity to streamline decision-making processes and appeal assessments. These changes aim to accelerate the resolution of asylum cases, reduce the reliance on hotels, and cut costs for taxpayers.
In addition to domestic measures, the government is enhancing international collaborations to combat organized immigration crime and dismantle trafficking networks. New partnerships with countries like Bulgaria, Romania, India, and Vietnam have been forged to enhance intelligence sharing and disrupt criminal operations at their roots.
Through various agreements and initiatives, such as the UK-France treaty and the Deport Now, Appeal Later scheme, the government is intensifying efforts to remove individuals with no legal right to remain in the UK and target smuggling networks. Enhanced border security measures and operational strategies are being implemented to expedite deportations and combat illegal working activities.
The government’s comprehensive approach aims to address public concerns regarding illegal migration and its impacts. By implementing a strategic plan that encompasses increased returns, crackdowns on criminal networks, and swift decision-making processes, the government aims to deter individuals from attempting illegal entry, expedite asylum procedures, remove unauthorized individuals, and phase out the use of asylum hotels by the end of the current parliamentary term.
This systematic approach, devoid of gimmicks or superficial tactics, signifies the government’s commitment to delivering tangible, long-lasting changes for the British populace. While acknowledging the complexity of the task ahead, the government emphasizes its serious and credible plan to fortify borders and combat illegal immigration effectively.