In response to the second reading of the Illegal Migration Bill, Daniela Reale, Global Policy and Advocacy lead at Save the Children said:

“We are outraged by the Illegal Migration Bill which represents a major setback in safeguarding children who have fled war and persecution. The Bill threatens to strip away basic human rights from the most vulnerable.

“The impact on children and families would be devastating. It would create a situation where only a few lucky ones who have access to safe and regular routes to the UK can seek refuge. Children seeking protection, whether with families or unaccompanied, would be left in limbo, unable to claim asylum, detained while awaiting removal- potentially for months or even years, denied the care and support they should receive. This is unacceptable.

“Instead of testing the boundaries of international law, the government should focus on increasing regular routes for safe admission, such as family reunification, strengthening the asylum system in the UK, and protecting the most vulnerable.” 

ENDS