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Illegal Immigration — [Sir Mark Hendrick in the Chair]

10 September 2024

Lead MP

Neil O'Brien
Harborough, Oadby and Wigston
Con

Responding Minister

Angela Eagle

Tags

ImmigrationAsylum & RefugeesMigrants & Borders
Word Count: 13384
Other Contributors: 8

At a Glance

Neil O'Brien raised concerns about illegal immigration — [sir mark hendrick in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

The lead MP asks the government to publish data on illegal immigration costs, set clear deportation targets with timelines, resume talks for third-country agreements, commit to towing boats back to France, and address underlying reasons why people attempt illegal entry.

How the Debate Unfolded

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

Lead Contributor

Harborough, Oadby and Wigston
Opened the debate
The number of people entering the UK illegally has surged since 2021, with over 125,000 individuals arriving by small boats alone. The asylum system is being overwhelmed, as many claimants are granted asylum or remain indefinitely despite having their claims denied. This undermines legal migration and security efforts, allowing dangerous individuals to enter the country.

Government Response

Angela Eagle
Government Response
The Government is committed to addressing illegal immigration and the criminal gangs behind small boat crossings. We are focusing on disrupting these operations, strengthening border security, and enhancing cooperation with international partners. The Border Security Command will integrate intelligence and enforcement agencies, including new cross-border police units and prosecutors, to dismantle criminal networks upstream and prevent boats from reaching French coasts. A proposed Bill will introduce measures to ensure the respect of asylum rules and enforce removals for those without legal rights in the UK. We have also increased returns of failed asylum seekers and foreign national offenders, with a focus on expanding immigration enforcement operations.
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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.