Reform UK is facing criticism following a statement from one of Nigel Farage’s close associates suggesting the possibility of sending asylum seekers to the Falkland Islands or Gibraltar if they come into power.
Sarah Pochin, a key figure in Reform UK, did not dismiss the idea when questioned about using British overseas territories as a backup plan. During a debate in Westminster Hall, Labour MP Luke Charters expressed his concerns about the proposal, urging Ms. Pochin to clarify the party’s stance on the matter.
In response to the inquiry, Ms. Pochin declined to rule out the utilization of the Falkland Islands or Gibraltar for asylum processing under Reform UK policies. This decision was met with disapproval from other MPs, with Kevin Bonavia highlighting the recent returns agreement with France as a more positive approach compared to the controversial overseas territories plan.
Nigel Farage has claimed that a government led by Reform UK would deport 600,000 migrants within five years. However, there are doubts about the feasibility of this plan, especially considering Farage’s willingness to negotiate with the Taliban.
In a previous statement back in 2023, Reform MP Lee Anderson expressed reservations about sending migrants to the Falkland Islands, suggesting alternative locations within the UK such as the Orkney Islands or remote Scottish isles for accommodating asylum seekers.
The ongoing discussions surrounding the potential use of British overseas territories for asylum processing continue to raise concerns and spark debates within the political landscape.