UK CUTS VISAS FOR UNCOOPERATIVE NATIONS – Shabana Mahmood warns countries must accept expelled migrants
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has warned that countries refusing to accept their failed asylum seekers could face visa restrictions for new arrivals, marking a tougher stance on border control.
The announcement, made during her first international engagement in London, follows talks with the Five Eyes – a decades-old intelligence-sharing partnership of the United States, Australia, Canada and New Zealand and builds on PM Starmer’s push for “returns hubs.” Over 30,000 migrants have entered the UK this year via small boats, prompting the use of military sites for temporary accommodation.
Mahmood insisted that ensuring border security is her top priority and “countries must play ball” or risk visa suspensions. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp criticised the delay in using existing powers, urging immediate action.
Observers note the move signals a move towards transaction-based immigration policy, and potential leverage over non-cooperative states. Ministers are expected to table further details in the upcoming legislation to reinforce repatriation cooperation
