Question to the Home Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the government of the Republic of Ireland regarding the challenges posed by illegal immigration into both jurisdictions; and what plans they have to publish any agreed practical measures.

As part of the Common Travel Area (CTA) arrangements, the UK does not operate routine immigration controls on journeys from Ireland to the UK, with no immigration checks being undertaken on the Northern Ireland-Ireland land border. The UK does however operate intelligence-led operational activity on CTA routes – away from the land border. This is to detect those who intend to abuse CTA arrangements. Anyone identified attempting to circumvent UK border controls is liable to be detained and, if they are not lawfully present within the UK, removed.

In support of this the UK and Ireland have a close and collaborative working relationship on a range of issues, including migration and border security. A key focus of that collaboration is our shared commitment to protect the CTA from abuse while preserving the rights of British and Irish citizens. Discussions are ongoing, including through the Common Travel Area Forum (CTAF), an official-level forum co-chaired by the UK Home Office and Ireland's Department of Justice.

The Government does not routinely publish details of these discussions or any measures under consideration. However, where appropriate, information on joint activity or agreed measures may be announced publicly.