Britain announces biggest asylum policy overhaul in decades.

Arab Sea Newspaper - Follow-ups

The British government announced on Saturday the launch of the largest comprehensive reform of the country's asylum policy in modern times, inspired by Denmark's strict model, which has faced widespread criticism from human rights groups. This move comes amid increasing numbers of arrivals via small boats from France, amid pressure from the populist British Reform Party, which has raised the issue of immigration to the forefront of the political scene, prompting the Labor government to adopt a more hardline stance. The Home Office said in a statement that the changes include the abolition of legal support for some asylum seekers, including housing and weekly allowances, especially for those who are able to work but refuse to do so, or for those who violate the laws. The ministry stressed that priority in providing support will be given to those who contribute to the economy and local communities. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is expected to reveal more details about these measures on Monday, which aim to reduce Britain's attractiveness to irregular migrants and facilitate their deportation. Data indicate a rise in asylum applications in the United Kingdom, with 109,343 applications in the year ending March 2025, a 17% increase from the previous year, exceeding the record set in 2002.