Illegal Migration Bill

Debate between Hilary Benn and Suella Braverman

Tuesday 7th March 2023 Commons Chamber

[Suella Braverman]

My hon. Friend is absolutely right to alight on the issue of the criminal gangs and people smugglers, and the importance of the pan-European criminal work that is ongoing to break their business model. We have had about 500 arrests and closed down 50 or so gangs, and work continues intensively with our French counterparts to stop this criminal and evil activity.

[Hilary Benn (Leeds Central) (Lab)]

The Home Secretary told the House earlier that she is confident that these proposals are compatible with the UK’s international obligations. Does that extend to articles 31, 32 and 33 of the 1951 refugee convention?

[Suella Braverman]

The Bill introduces measures that we consider to be compliant with all our international obligations—in fact, we are certain.

Migration and Economic Development

Debate between Hilary Benn and Suella Braverman

Monday 19th December 2022 Commons Chamber

[Suella Braverman]

Yes.

[Hilary Benn (Leeds Central) (Lab)]

Can the Home Secretary assure the House that if someone arrives on the shores at Dover to claim asylum in order to be able to join a child, a spouse or an elderly parent here in the United Kingdom under the right to family life, that individual will not be put on a plane to Rwanda and separated from his or her family for the rest of their lives?

[Suella Braverman]

Anyone arriving here irregularly will be eligible for consideration. We will consider every case on its individual merits. We have excluded families from the scheme, but we will also ensure that the decisions are made on a lawful and rational basis.