Financial aid for asylum seekers is expected to be reduced in a significant immigration crackdown. Following Denmark’s model, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is preparing to introduce reforms to the asylum system to make the UK less appealing to migrants and streamline their removal.

The Home Office asserts that these changes align the UK with global norms, but the Refugee Council warns that more migrants may end up homeless on the streets. Among the reforms, Mahmood plans to eliminate the legal obligation to provide support to asylum seekers, including housing and weekly allowances, established in 2005 by EU law.

Furthermore, individuals who have the right to work in the UK but choose not to support themselves may lose access to housing and benefits due to this policy change. Law-breaking asylum seekers could also face the removal of their support. In a parliamentary statement, the Home Secretary is expected to announce that refugee status will be temporary and subject to regular review, with refugees being repatriated once their home countries are deemed safe.

Contrary to the current system where refugees can apply for indefinite leave to remain after five years, the proposed changes may require judges to prioritize public safety over migrants’ rights to family life or the risk of facing mistreatment in their home countries. Mahmood emphasized the need to address the increasing migration pressure and restore border control, citing the country’s tradition of offering refuge to those in need.

Drawing inspiration from Denmark’s strict asylum policies, UK officials have studied their approach to manage incentives attracting migrants and enhance deportations of illegal entrants. Enver Solomon, Chief Executive of the Refugee Council, criticized the proposed reforms, stating that they may not deter individuals fleeing persecution, torture, or conflict. He highlighted the existing challenges in the asylum system, such as restrictions on work during the application process and the limited time provided for finding accommodation post-refugee status.

Overall, the upcoming changes aim to overhaul the asylum system in the UK, guided by lessons learned from other countries like Denmark.