Unaccompanied Child Refugees EU Transition Period
2020-11-09
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The UK has not yet agreed to a draft agreement tabled in May for co-operation at an EU level regarding unaccompanied child refugees.
What steps the Government has taken to help ensure co-operation at a European level on unaccompanied child refugees after the transition period?
The United Kingdom tabled a full draft agreement to the European Commission back in May, which included provisions for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children family reunion. That has sadly so far not been agreed, but the negotiations are still ongoing.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific actions taken to secure cooperation were not detailed beyond tabling a draft agreement in May.
Negotiations Are Still Ongoing
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
On 9 August, the Home Secretary announced the appointment of a clandestine channel threat commander to address small boat crossings.
Can the Minister confirm precisely what powers the commander has and why the elements of the role could not be addressed by Border Force?
Given that the problems posed by cross-channel small boat crossings are unique, serious, dangerous, facilitated by ruthless criminals, a dedicated person with proper experience was appointed. He is a former Royal Marine and can work on completely stopping these crossings.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific powers of the commander were not clarified beyond mentioning his background as a former Royal Marine.
Problems Posed By Cross-Channel Small Boat Crossings Are Unique
Response accuracy