Criminals from foreign countries to be expelled prior to appeals being addressed

The UK government is taking bold steps to ensure that the country's immigration rules are not abused, as part of its commitment to restore order to the immigration system and deliver on the public's priorities for safer streets and secure borders. This mission is outlined in the Government's Plan for Change, which includes a target of returning 35,000 people with no right to remain by July 2024.

One of the key measures announced is the expansion of the 'Deport Now Appeal Later' scheme to include 23 countries. Previously, offenders from these countries could remain in the UK for extended periods while their appeals were processed. However, under the new scheme, foreign nationals from these 23 countries will be expected to be deported before they can appeal their removal from the UK.

To facilitate this, the UK government has invested £5 million for the deployment of specialist staff to nearly 80 jails. The mission of these specialist staff is to speed up removals of foreign criminals. If foreign criminals wish to appeal, they can do so safely from their home country, according to Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who is leading diplomatic efforts to increase the number of countries where foreign criminals can be swiftly returned.

Appeals will be heard using video technology from overseas, ensuring a fair and efficient process. The UK government's Immigration White Paper in May has set out new plans to tighten the rules around the use of Article 8 of the Human Rights Act when appealing against deportation orders or the rejection of asylum claims.

Furthermore, measures have been announced to allow foreign national offenders to be deported immediately after sentencing. This is part of a broader approach that also includes surging illegal working raids and arrests by 50% and increasing asylum decision-making by more than 116%.

The Home Office is legislating to strip asylum seekers who commit notifiable sex offenses of their right to claim refugee protections. These changes are significant steps towards ensuring that the UK's immigration system is fair, efficient, and effective in protecting the public.

Since July 2024, almost 5,200 foreign criminals have been removed, an increase of 14% compared to the previous 12 months. The government is in discussions with other countries to join the expanded scheme, marking a concerted effort to address immigration abuse and deliver on the public's priorities for a secure future.

Criminals from foreign countries to be expelled prior to appeals being addressed