Immigration — [Sir David Amess in the Chair]

The number of people claiming asylum dropped by 40% in 2020. People crossing the English Channel are doing so to claim asylum, not illegally enter the country or for criminal reasons. The legal position is that those seeking asylum have rights under international refugee law regardless of their mode of arrival. Chris Stephens questions the Minister about foreign nationals and criminal issues, suggesting that it is not the fault of lawyers who represent asylum seekers.

McGinn expressed concern over the increase in channel crossings and criticised the Home Secretary's rhetoric as divisive and dangerous. He urged for a compassionate response that respects legal routes, recognising that many migrants are forced to take desperate measures due to dire circumstances.

Graham Stringer intervened to question why human rights lawyers are able to intervene in deportation cases, suggesting that this undermines border security and public confidence in immigration control.

Over the summer, hundreds of illegal immigrants crossed the English Channel to UK shores; in September alone, 1,954 migrants made it across. The Home Secretary is taking a strong line against illegal crossings through territorial waters and border forces cooperation with France. Imran supports firm action but warns that rewarding illegal immigration undermines national security and encourages human trafficking. Mr. Khan intervened, discussing the issue of asylum seekers abusing the system, referencing a specific incident in Glasgow where an Ahmadi Muslim was murdered by someone from Pakistan. He emphasized that there are legal mechanisms for applying for asylum and stressed the importance of abiding by rules to integrate into society.

Mr. Young highlighted the concerns of his constituents about the influx of illegal immigrants via small boats, noting that Redcar and Cleveland had the highest number of petition signatories at 311. He emphasised the dangers faced by those attempting the crossing and called for urgent measures to stop such arrivals, citing more than 7,000 crossings this year. He urged greater resources for law enforcement agencies to combat people smugglers and supported an Australian-style approach involving intercepting vessels and returning them to their point of origin. Given the discussion on language barriers, does he agree that we are no longer discussing asylum claims but migration for economic reasons?

Expressed compassion for those fleeing persecution, highlighted the moral obligation to help refugees and persecuted groups, praised efforts in resettling Syrian families, emphasized the need for a balance between helping international refugees and meeting domestic needs, called for safe and legal asylum processes, and urged the Government to show compassion while ensuring legality. Disagreed with Chris Stephens's final paragraph and emphasized the importance of safe legal routes for people claiming asylum. Mentioned the Ahmadi community in Glasgow as an example of a welcoming community.

Mr David Simpson emphasised the need to ensure that those who enter illegally are swiftly removed, stressing the importance of securing borders and preventing illegal entry.

Nicholas Fletcher highlighted the concern over illegal immigration in his constituency, noting that a petition was signed by more than 270 individuals. He stressed that while he supports immigrants' contributions to society, it is crucial for people to enter the country legally and fairly. He called for humane measures to deter illegal immigration and emphasised the need for fair treatment of refugees without undermining legitimate asylum seekers.

Touched on the need to allow asylum seekers the right to work after a certain point, reflecting his private Member's Bill on that matter.

Rushanara Ali highlighted issues with the asylum system, including delays in processing applications and poor living conditions for those seeking refuge. She also mentioned concerns over the impact of Brexit on migration policy.