Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Asylum Seekers (Removal to Safe Countries)

14 December 2022 · 3 other contributors

Opened by Jonathan Gullis Con Stoke-on-Trent North

Asylum & Refugees

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Jonathan Gullis raised concerns about asylum seekers (removal to safe countries) in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Moved a Bill to ensure certain provisions of the Nationality and Borders Act 2022 regarding removals of asylum seekers have effect despite any conflict with international law.
  • Welcomed the Prime Minister's announcement to expedite removals of Albanian asylum seekers and to end the use of hotels for migrant accommodation.
  • Argued that appeals to the European Court of Human Rights impede deportations to Rwanda, thus undermining the Act.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Jonathan Gullis Con Stoke-on-Trent North

Moved a Bill to provide that certain provisions of the Nationality and Borders Act 2022 relating to removals of asylum seekers should have effect notwithstanding any inconsistency or incompatibility with international law. Welcomed the Prime Minister’s announcement to fast-track removals of Albanians, speed up processing of claims, and end use of hotels for migrants. Argued that the Act was undermined by appeals to the European Court of Human Rights which prevented deportations to Rwanda.

Other contributors (3)
  • Alison Thewliss SNP Glasgow Central

    Criticised the Bill as offensive, dangerous and lacking in compassion. Highlighted Glasgow’s high immigration rate and its benefits. Criticised Tory disregard for international law and human rights conventions. Questioned effectiveness of 'tough' measures such as Australia's model and UK's Nationality and Borders Act 2022. Emphasised the vulnerability of asylum seekers, especially men who were recruited forcibly or victims of war.

  • Eleanor Laing Con unknown constituency

    The House is suspended in anticipation of the arrival of His Majesty the King and will resume sitting at 4 pm or as soon as possible thereafter.

  • Rosie Winterton Lab unknown constituency

    Announced the result of today’s deferred Division on the draft Architects Act 1997 (Amendment) Regulations 2022. The Ayes were 303 and the Noes were 42, so the Ayes have it.

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