Julian secures concessions on safe and legal routes in Illegal Migration Bill
April 26, 2023
Julian was pleased to see the Illegal Migration Bill pass through the House of Commons, it will now go to the House of Lords where it will be subjected to closer and more detailed scrutiny.
As you may be aware, before last night’s votes, Julian signed three amendments to the Bill, mainly with the aim of strengthening safe legal route for genuine asylum seekers. Julian was pleased to see them all adopted by the Government, and none require a vote before progressing to the Lords. It was good to see Julian secure this concession as it is vital to achieve the aims of the Bill.
The principal amendment, New Clause 8, compels the Home Secretary to prepare a report that is then presented to Parliament that looks at opening up new legal routes for people fleeing persecution.
While it remains a priority to stop the boats and crack down on people traffickers, there is a contradiction in terms if you do not help those who need help. Both things can, and must, be done in tandem.
Julian will now closely watch what happens to the Bill in the House of Lords and will consider carefully is he wants to support any changes the Lords now propose.
