UK Nationals returning from Syria Debate

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Department: Home Office

UK Nationals returning from Syria

Andrew Bridgen Excerpts
Monday 18th February 2019

(5 years, 9 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Sajid Javid Portrait Sajid Javid
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I am very happy to confirm that to my hon. Friend. As I mentioned earlier, anyone who has gone to Syria in recent years will have known the huge risk they were taking, and we certainly will not risk the lives of any British officials or soldiers, or anyone else, to help or rescue those who went to support terrorism.

Andrew Bridgen Portrait Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Con)
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What powers and resources does my right hon. Friend have to ensure that any British citizen returning from the so-called caliphate in whose case the burden of proof does not permit a criminal prosecution will face mandatory and robust deradicalisation programmes?

Sajid Javid Portrait Sajid Javid
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As I have mentioned, this is not a new challenge—we estimate that one way or another more than 300 people have returned in the last few years. When someone manages to return, we first make sure, in the interest of justice, that they are questioned, investigated and, where appropriate, properly prosecuted. Where youngsters, in particular, are involved, however, we also make sure they get deradicalisation help through specific programmes; in some cases, through mental health support; and through support in other ways too. In each case, we will work with partners to create a bespoke programme for that individual and do all we can.