Afghan Citizens Asylum Policies 2022-09-05
2022-09-05
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP inquired about the impact of recent asylum policies on Afghan citizens seeking refuge and humanitarian protection in the UK.
I am concerned about the potential impact of our current asylum policies on Afghan citizens who seek refuge and humanitarian protection. What assessment has she made of these policies?
Our United Kingdom has a proud history of providing sanctuary to those in need through our resettlement schemes. The new plan for immigration will ensure that our resources can be focused on those in most need of resettlement around the world, including in Afghanistan, rather than on those who can pay a people smuggler.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific impact on Afghan citizens was not assessed directly.
Focused Resources On Needs
People Smugglers
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP raised concerns about recent reports by expert groups highlighting restrictive measures in the UK's resettlement schemes.
Nine expert groups last month found the UK government's resettlement schemes to be 'unjustifiably restrictive', especially concerning Afghan women and girls, or oppressed minority groups. Does he share my concern?
We need to focus our efforts on those who need resettlement and safety and are under threat in Afghanistan, rather than on those who prefer to be here than in another safe and democratic country. Last year's evacuation brought people to safety in the UK.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address expert groups' findings directly.
Focus Efforts
Safe Countries
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP acknowledged the work done by teams in facilitating relocation of Afghans who worked with UK operations.
Will the Minister confirm that those Afghans who assisted British armed forces are a priority, and thank him for the work of Home Office teams enabling MPs to help people fleeing persecution?
Those who worked with UK operations would liaise primarily with our colleagues in the Ministry of Defence, and we facilitate relocation to the UK under ARAP scheme where appropriate. Home Office teams do outstanding work enabling MPs to help people fleeing persecution.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlighted the cost to mental health of Afghans in bridging hotels and questioned pathway 2's ability to support women judges and LGBT activists.
With 10,000 Afghans still stuck in bridging hotels at a daily cost of £1.4 million, can he explain why pathway 2 does not allow women judges or LGBT activists to apply for asylum from Afghanistan?
We are proud of what we have done, including one of the biggest evacuations since war years. About 7,400 people moved into new homes since ARAP flights in June. We work with local authorities to provide more accommodation but need to be clear about working with communities.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific reasons for pathway 2 restrictions were not provided.
Proud Of Efforts
Local Community Cooperation
Response accuracy