Facing the rise of the far right, London announced major reforms to keep out migrants

Two main measures were announced by the country’s Ministry of the Interior: restrictions on protection provided to refugees and assistance provided to asylum seekers.

Measurement “historical”. The British government announced on Saturday, November 15, that it will implement major reforms to limit migrant arrivals in the UK and counter the rise of Nigel Farage’s anti-immigration party. “This country has a proud tradition of welcoming people fleeing danger, but our generosity attracts illegal migrants across the Channel”said Home Minister Shabana Mahmood.

The two main steps were announced in a press release from his ministry, pending the presentation of detailed plans planned before Parliament on Monday.

The government will first reduce the protection given to refugees “forced to return to their home country as soon as it is deemed safe”. “Thanks to much better conditions in England”Refugees can currently apply to settle permanently, free of charge, after five years in the UK, “without contributing” in the country, underlining the ministry of Shabana Mahmood.

The new system will reduce their stay from five years to 30 months, and will double the time it takes to apply to become a permanent resident, from five to 20 years. Refugees who want to become permanent residents more quickly “must work or study”the ministry added.

Another major step is the removal of automatic access to social assistance – housing, financial benefits – for asylum seekers. The government wants to stop them “for those who have the right to work and can support themselves, but choose not to, or for those who violate the law”according to a press release.