Asylum Application Backlog 2024-01-15
2024-01-15
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
There is a significant backlog in asylum application processing, causing delays for individuals awaiting decisions. The Refugee Council reports over 30,000 new cases in the last six months.
I am concerned about the backlog of asylum applications and its impact on those waiting for decisions. My constituent has waited over a year since their interview, reflecting ongoing systemic issues despite recent improvements. What steps are being taken to address this issue?
Last year we cleared the equivalent of 90,000 legacy claims and processed a total of more than 112,000 claims—the largest volume in two decades. The total asylum backlog is now at its lowest point since December 2022. We continue to review and improve processes to accelerate decision making.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about reducing delays for new cases was not directly addressed with concrete commitments or timelines.
General Improvement Statements
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Four hotels in Warrington are currently housing asylum seekers, raising concerns about the cost and the need for faster processing of claims.
There are four hotels in my constituency housing asylum seekers. Will you provide an update on hotel closures? What steps are being taken to speed up claim processing while residents wait in these accommodations?
We are moving away from using hotels as asylum accommodation to reduce costs. Recruitment levels will be maintained, and processes improved to continue speeding up claim processing.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about hotel closures in the constituency was not directly addressed with concrete updates or timelines.
General Improvement Statements
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Recent data indicates a significant number of new asylum claims, increasing pressure on the system. My constituent has waited over 15 months since their interview.
My constituent waited more than a year after an initial interview to receive a final decision. The Refugee Council reports 33,085 new cases in six months. What specific actions are being taken to address delays for recent claims?
Improved processes and increased staffing mean that not only legacy but also current cases will be processed more quickly, reducing the need for accommodation. Individual circumstances vary.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about recent case delays was not directly addressed with concrete actions or timelines.
General Improvement Statements
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The number of rejected asylum seekers removed from the UK has fallen since Labour left office in 2010. Recent reports indicate that over 85% of identified individuals for removal to Rwanda are missing.
Since 2010, removals of rejected asylum seekers have dropped by 50%. Over the weekend, it was revealed that nearly 90% of those identified for removal to Rwanda are untraceable. Where are these individuals? Will you acknowledge the failure of the Rwanda plan and adopt Labour's proposal to recruit more immigration officers?
The mask has slipped. The Labour party says they would scrap a successful Rwanda scheme, showing their lack of commitment. They have no plan.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about the Rwanda plan's efficacy and additional recruitment was entirely avoided in favour of attacking Labour's stance.
Criticizing Opposition
Response accuracy