Illegal Migration ‘Tearing UK Apart’, Home Secretary Mahmood Warns

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has issued a stark warning that illegal migration is “tearing our country apart,” describing the current asylum system as fundamentally broken and divisive.

She characterized her push for asylum reform as a “moral mission” driven by concern over growing social and political strain linked to irregular migration.

Mahmood stated that illegal migration is placing significant pressure on communities and leading to a breakdown in trust.

She argued that people smugglers are exploiting the perceived generosity of Britain to lure migrants, particularly across the English Channel. To counter this, she is proposing sweeping reforms aimed at reducing the “pull factors” that encourage clandestine crossings.

Key elements of her reform package include making refugee status temporary, subject to review every 30 months, instead of granting indefinite protection. She also plans to introduce safe and legal routes for asylum seekers, while reducing the automatic provision of housing and financial support for those who cross illegally.

Under her proposals, individuals who arrive illegally would need to wait 20 years before applying for permanent settlement, a major shift from current policy. Mahmood defended the changes by saying they are necessary to restore public confidence and prevent further division in the country.

She rejected accusations that the reforms echo far-right rhetoric, pointing out her own family background as the child of lawful migrants. Mahmood emphasized that her aim is to bring order to the asylum system, ensure fairness, and send a strong deterrent signal to people smugglers.

Sources: The Guardian, Sky News, ITV News, Financial Times, Express & Star