World Immigration News

(Politics UK)Shabana Mahmood’s new immigration reforms

Release Date: 2026-02-09
Media: Politics UK
Summary: UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has pledged to further increase the removal and deportation of illegal migrants and foreign criminals. Since the Labour government took office in 2024, more than 50,000 people have been removed, including over 15,200 forced deportations—a 45% increase compared to the previous government. Deportations of foreign national offenders have also risen by 32%, with more than 8,700 removed.

The government plans new legislation to prevent illegal migrants from using Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights to block removal and to create a single, streamlined appeal system. Under proposed changes, those who lose their appeal would be required to leave immediately. Foreign offenders may also be deported without serving a minimum portion of their sentence in UK prisons.

To reduce costs, the government is cutting asylum expenses by limiting services for migrants in hotels and shifting accommodation to more basic facilities such as military sites. The number of migrant hotels has already been reduced to about 200.

Enforcement against illegal working has intensified, with record numbers of arrests and raids in 2025. New measures also criminalize online advertising of small-boat crossings and the sale of fake immigration documents. The government says these reforms aim to deter illegal entry, disrupt smuggling networks, and strengthen border control.
Tags: United Kingdom

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