Question to the Home Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of making refugee protections temporary subject to review every 30 months.

The 30-month review period for those granted protection reflects the Government’s view that protection should be provided for as long as it is needed. As conditions in countries of origin can change over time, it is appropriate to review whether an individual continues to require international protection before further permission is granted.

Individuals with an ongoing protection need will have their status renewed, while those who no longer require protection will be expected to leave the UK unless they qualify for leave on another basis. Safe return reviews have long been a feature of the UK's protection system. Protection needs can change over time, and it is therefore right that an individual's circumstances are reviewed before further leave or settlement is granted. The Government remains committed to providing protection to those who need it, in line with the UK's international obligations.

Settlement for those granted protection has never been automatic. Individuals have always needed to meet the requirements in place at the point they become eligible to apply, including demonstrating that they continue to require protection where relevant. The principle that protection should be provided for as long as it is needed, and reviewed where circumstances change, is a longstanding feature of the UK's protection system.

In addition, in future those on core protection will be able to switch to the protection work and study route, which will provide greater certainty about their future in the UK. This will also allow them to earn down the time it takes to obtain settlement and open up refugee family reunion rights. Individuals who switch to this route will no longer be subject to safe return reviews, recognising their contribution through work or study.