Asylum system in UK ‘out of control’ and dividing country, home secretary says

The GuardianSunday, November 16, 2025 at 6:10:09 PM
Asylum system in UK ‘out of control’ and dividing country, home secretary says
The UK government is facing increasing scrutiny over its asylum policies, with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood set to unveil reforms that could redefine support for asylum seekers. The proposed changes include making assistance discretionary for those who can work or possess assets, reflecting a shift in the government's approach to immigration. Mahmood's assertion that the asylum system is 'out of control' resonates with broader concerns about illegal migration, which she claims is tearing the UK apart. These developments indicate a significant pivot in the UK's immigration strategy, aiming to address rising public fears while potentially impacting the lives of established refugees.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended Readings
Monday briefing: How Trump and his allies flipped and flipped again on the Epstein files
NegativeWorld Affairs
Senior figures within the Republican Party, who previously called for the full disclosure of information regarding Jeffrey Epstein and his connections, are now attempting to block the publication of these records. This shift in stance comes after years of promoting conspiracy theories that linked Epstein to Democratic elites and Hollywood figures. The evolving narrative raises questions about the motivations behind the GOP's current position on the Epstein files.
Will the government's new asylum plans work?
NeutralWorld Affairs
The Prime Minister has appointed Shabana Mahmood to lead the Home Office, a move that signals a shift towards more radical asylum plans. The effectiveness of these new plans remains uncertain, raising questions about their potential impact on the government's approach to immigration and asylum seekers.
China's investment spree in UK gave it access to military-grade technology, BBC told
NegativeWorld Affairs
Since 2000, China has invested tens of billions of pounds in the UK, as reported by BBC's Panorama. This significant influx of capital has reportedly granted China access to military-grade technology, raising concerns about the implications of such technology transfer on national security and international relations.
'Sweeping reforms to asylum rules' and 'New humiliation for Andrew'
NeutralWorld Affairs
The UK Home Secretary announced significant reforms to the asylum rules on November 17, 2025. This announcement has been widely covered in the media, indicating a major shift in the government's approach to handling asylum seekers. The reforms are expected to impact the processes and criteria under which asylum applications are evaluated in the UK, reflecting ongoing debates about immigration policy and border control.
Why Labour is going Danish on immigration – podcast
NegativeWorld Affairs
Danish journalist Nilas Heinskou and Syrian refugee Agob Yacoub discuss Denmark's strict immigration and asylum policies, which are reportedly influencing upcoming changes to the UK's immigration system. UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is expected to announce a significant overhaul of the asylum and immigration framework, drawing inspiration from Denmark's approach over the past decade. Since 2019, Denmark's government has implemented harsh measures, including demolishing estates with high populations of non-Western residents.
Two-thirds of nurses in UK work while unwell, says union
NegativeWorld Affairs
A recent survey conducted by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) revealed that two-thirds of nurses in the UK are working while unwell, primarily due to understaffing and stress. The survey, which included over 20,000 nursing staff, found that 66% of respondents reported working despite being eligible for sick leave, a significant increase from 49% in 2017. The RCN's CEO emphasized that the current staffing crisis is adversely affecting the health of nurses and discouraging them from taking necessary leave.
Home secretary threatens Trump-style visa ban on three countries as part of radical asylum reforms
NegativeWorld Affairs
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced plans to implement Trump-style visa bans on three African countries if they do not agree to take back illegal migrants. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at sweeping reforms of the UK's immigration system. The proposed changes reflect a significant shift in the government's approach to handling asylum seekers and illegal immigration.
Shabana Mahmood warns Labour MPs ‘dark forces are stirring up anger’ over migration
NegativeWorld Affairs
Shabana Mahmood has alerted Labour MPs to the rising tensions surrounding migration, as concerns grow over the Home Secretary's significant changes to refugee rights. Mahmood's warning comes ahead of the announcement of new laws that will require refugee status to be reassessed every two years, limit asylum appeals, and tighten family life rights. The proposed reforms also include a single appeal process for asylum seekers and a new body for fast-tracking cases involving dangerous criminals.