Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is facing accusations from the anti-slavery watchdog for endangering vulnerable lives. This comes after she criticized the use of modern slavery laws to halt the deportation of migrants, calling it a “mockery of our laws.” Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner Eleanor Lyons expressed concerns that Mahmood’s statements could discourage victims of exploitation from seeking help.
In response to a High Court ruling preventing the deportation of an asylum seeker under the UK’s deportation arrangement with France, the Government is facing setbacks. The individual, an Eritrean man, was granted a temporary reprieve just before his scheduled removal to France. The court has granted him a 14-day window to substantiate his claim of being a victim of modern slavery.
The Home Office intends to appeal the court’s decision and Mahmood is leading an urgent review of the Modern Slavery Act to investigate potential misuse. Mahmood emphasized the need to address last-minute claims of modern slavery by migrants, stating that such actions undermine the country’s laws and generosity.
Treasury minister James Murray defended the Government’s actions in response to criticism, emphasizing that the focus is on addressing the concerns of the British public regarding illegal migration. A pilot scheme established with the French government aims to curb small boat crossings, marking a significant step post-Brexit. This agreement allows for the return of asylum seekers who crossed the Channel to France in exchange for approved migrants coming to the UK.
Legal challenges raised on behalf of the Eritrean man regarding the risk of destitution if returned to France have led to further scrutiny of the UK’s investigative processes. The court acknowledged the need to assess the trafficking claim and the Home Secretary’s compliance with investigatory duties lawfully.
This ongoing situation highlights the complexities of immigration policies and the legal responsibilities involved, raising questions about how best to balance national security concerns with humanitarian considerations.