Business of the House

Ellie Chowns Excerpts

Thursday 13th February 2025 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

Let me just say, as I have been tempted into the conversation, that I have raised this matter with the Prime Minister, because there is a major injustice in the stigma attached to rugby league and the fact that not one player has ever been knighted. Given that Kevin Sinfield has raised millions for motor neurone disease charities, I should have thought that now is the time and we should wait no longer.

[Ellie Chowns (North Herefordshire) (Green)]

On Monday, the Home Office published updated guidance that seems to prevent anyone from being granted citizenship if they have come to this country through a dangerous journey, despite the fact that for the vast majority of those seeking refuge, there are no safe and legal routes available. Can we have a debate in Government time on this deeply misjudged policy, and in particular on the call from a former Home Secretary to the current Home Secretary to consider very carefully its implications?

[Lucy Powell]

I thank the hon. Lady for raising that matter. She will be aware that there are long-standing rules that prevent those who arrive illegally in this country from being granted citizenship. We have strengthened those rules in a small way for those who arrive on small boats, so that they also will not be able to become British citizens. It is important that we take away some of the pull factors that bring people to this country and that we take tough action to control our borders. She makes a very important point about safe routes, which I know the Home Secretary has been taking action on and updates the House on regularly, but I will ensure she continues to do so.