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Legislative Scrutiny: Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill
26 June 2025
Lead MP
Alex Sobel
Leeds Central and Headingley
Lab/Co-op
Responding Minister
Seema Malhotra
Tags
Asylum & RefugeesMigrants & Borders
Word Count: 1915
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Alex Sobel raised concerns about legislative scrutiny: border security, asylum and immigration bill in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The Committee proposes amendments to address issues such as clarity of clauses, introduction of mental elements in certain offences, and recommendations for repeal or amendment of specific sections to ensure compliance with human rights obligations.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The Committee welcomes the intention of the Bill to prevent loss of life at sea and deter organised immigration crime. However, it is concerned that some new offences pose a risk of criminalising refugees and other vulnerable groups, which may interfere with rights under the refugee convention and the European convention on human rights. The provisions could extend beyond the Government’s stated legitimate aim and inadvertently criminalise persons who should be protected.
Sobel acknowledged an increase in asylum claims related to religious persecution but did not have specific figures. He suggested that the Government should review its list of safe countries with regard to individuals' ability to practise their religion safely.
Government Response
Seema Malhotra
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department
Government Response
Minister Seema Malhotra thanked Jim Shannon and acknowledged the Committee's work on the report. She assured that the Government is reviewing the report in detail and will respond formally at a later date.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.