UK to Expedite the Repatriation of Bangladeshi Failed Asylum Seekers.
The UK and Bangladesh have signed a new agreement to expedite the return of failed asylum seekers, eliminating the mandatory interview process for deportation when there is substantial supporting evidence. This deal will also facilitate the return of foreign offenders and visa overstays to Bangladesh, following in the footsteps of a similar agreement the UK has with Albania.
The Home Office confirmed in a statement on Thursday that Michael Tomlinson, the minister for countering illegal migration, emphasized the importance of hastening removals as part of the strategy to prevent illegal entry and stay in the country. He expressed optimism in the effectiveness of these agreements in deterring illegal migration, highlighting the need for global cooperation to address such issues.
A previous agreement with Albania has already proven successful in reducing illegal immigration, with a significant decrease in the number of Albanians arriving in the UK via small boats following the implementation of the deal.
Last year, the Home Office reported a 74 percent increase in the return of 26,000 individuals with no legal right to remain in the UK, compared to 2022.
Rwanda Scheme Expanded
Recently, the government announced additional measures to manage illegal immigration by sending individuals to Rwanda. This initiative targets those who arrived in the country illegally after January 1, 2022, whose asylum claims were rejected, or withdrawn without the option to appeal.
Failed asylum seekers may choose to volunteer for relocation to Rwanda, with support offered to help them establish a new life in the East African nation. The UK conducted its first removal to Rwanda in April and warned that those who refuse voluntary departure may face detention and enforced removal.
The Home Office has intensified efforts to address illegal immigration, including detentions preceding flights to Rwanda. Operation Vector mobilized 800 immigration enforcement officers for nationwide raids to detain individuals without legal authorization to remain in the UK.
The government is gearing up to initiate deportations within the next 8 to 10 weeks, increasing detention capacity, preparing airports for deportation flights, and securing commercial charter planes.
‘Concerted Effort’ to Derail Rwanda Plan
Despite challenges, the Rwanda scheme has faced in recent weeks, including a legal ruling in Northern Ireland disapplying certain provisions of the Illegal Migration Act 2023, the government maintains its commitment to proceed with the plans. Ministers have vowed to appeal the court decision and ensure that flights to Rwanda continue as scheduled.
Home Secretary James Cleverly defended the government’s position, stating that legal provisions are robust and designed to align with human rights standards. He emphasized that Rwanda is prepared to collaborate with the UK and reiterated the scheme’s objective as a means to deter illegal immigration.
Figures from the Home Office indicate that 9,564 individuals have illegally entered the UK through small boats crossing the English Channel this year. The government views the Rwanda scheme as a critical tool in managing and reducing illegal immigration.
PA Media contributed to this report.
