Deeside.com > News
Posted: Wed 22nd Oct 2025
Promotional feature…
The political debate regarding asylum seekers in the UK has intensified under the Labour government led by Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister. Keir Starmer faces scrutiny over how his government intends to reform the UK asylum system in balancing humanitarian responsibility with public concern over border control. This is specifically highlighted by how his government plans to discontinue what he described as a “golden ticket,” which enables individuals to bring their families to the UK after being granted asylum. Having inherited a system he once described as “broken” and in an “unforgivable state,” which has been led by successive Conservative governments, Keir Starmer’s administration attempts to do something new. This plan has placed him at odds with more significant human rights advocates and charities, and his political opponents, who believe he hasn’t been efficient in stopping illegal immigration. These groups supporting asylum seekers in the UK insist that reforms must include better access to qualified immigration lawyers and free solicitors for asylum seekers. As the ongoing debate about asylum seekers UK has become a popular issue in British politics, this guide examines the central points of the conflict between the Keir Starmer-led government and asylum seekers in the United Kingdom.
UK Asylum Policy Changes under Labour Leadership 2025
In 2025, Keir Starmer’s asylum policy proposed steps that have spurned a raging debate in the UK. His Labour government’s approach is viewed as a shift toward a tougher stance on immigration, bringing both criticism and praise. The policies are viewed by many as a move to counter the rise of the right-wing Reform UK party and address concerns about immigration. The specific Keir Starmer position and the UK Labour Party’s immigration stance on asylum seekers in 2025 include:
Return Hubs in Third Countries
In May 2025, Keir Starmer’s government announced plans to establish ‘return hubs’ in third countries, primarily in the Western Balkans and Africa, to process failed asylum seekers. This policy bears some resemblance to the previous Conservative government’s controversial Rwanda deportation plan, which Starmer had previously criticised. A prominent reason for seeking return hubs is that more than 32,000 asylum seekers have been provided with accommodation in UK hotels by June of this year. This represents a significant 8% increase from last year, costing the UK government more than £5 million per day. This led to the idea of relocating asylum seekers from hotels to alternative accommodations, such as homestays, shared houses, and former military bases.
One in, One out Pilot with France
Following a July 2025 meeting between Starmer and the French President Emmanuel Macron (the UK-France Dangerous Journeys Agreement), they agreed to a ‘one in, one out’ pilot scheme. In this agreement, which is set to run until June 2026, France is expected to return individuals who have illegally crossed the English Channel through small boats, and whose asylum claims have been withdrawn or deemed inadmissible. A record of over 27,000 illegal immigrants have entered the UK through that route this year. On the other hand, for each person returned to France, the UK agrees to accept one asylum seeker with a strong case for protection who has not attempted to cross the Channel illegally.
Suspension of Family Reunion Visas
One of Keir Starmer’s positions, especially to withdraw “the golden ticket” from refugees granted asylum, came into effect on September 3, 2025. The policy has now halted the resettlement and family reunion rights that refugees were previously given in the UK. While existing applicants are still being processed, new arrivals are prevented from immediately bringing their family members to the UK.
Longer Route to Settlement
In October 2025, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced that asylum seekers would face a longer, conditional path to settlement in the UK. This position moves away from the previous 5-year standard. This new policy requires refugees to meet stricter criteria, including demonstrating higher English proficiency, having a clean criminal record, and contributing to the community. After meeting these criteria, an asylum seeker UK can then obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Criticism of Keir Starmer’s Stance on Asylum Seekers
Keir Starmer’s stance on asylum has drawn criticism. Even the Labour Party’s progressive members accuse him of adopting policies that compromise the party’s humanitarian principles. The Conservative critics claim that his approach is too lenient and, as a result, will attract more irregular migration. Observers also question how Keir Starmer plans to handle refugee applications in the UK without adequate investment in infrastructure. Asylum seekers continue to face long waiting times, uncertain housing conditions, and limited access to legal representation.
The shadow home secretary Chris Philp, a Conservative Party member, referred to Starmer’s planned changes as a “gimmick” that will be ineffective. This is because Keir Starmer’s stance on asylum seekers UK is focused, much like his predecessor’s. The policy appears to be heavily weighted towards enforcement and deterrence, without providing alternative pathways for asylum seekers to seek protection. Keir Starmer was also criticised for introducing “Rwanda-like” schemes, which he had previously opposed, and condemned as wasteful and immoral.
The Refugee Council believes that Starmer’s approach would not deter people from seeking asylum in the UK. Rather, it would send more desperate people into the arms of people-smugglers to reunite with their family members in the UK. In response to criticisms from humanitarian advocates and charities regarding the new policies, the Migration Minister, Mike Tapp, believes that the Labour Party’s approach is fair but firm. He believes that the changes would stop migrants from shopping around for asylum.
What the Future Holds for Asylum Policy under the Labour Party
From now on, the UK asylum policy debate 2025 may intensify as the Labour Party moves to implement its reforms. Starmer’s leadership is being watched to see how effectively he can deliver both fairness and firmness in practice. If his Labour Party-led government succeeds, it may redefine Britain’s approach to migration for years to come. Asylum seekers UK should seek professional guidance in presenting their cases before the full implementation of Starmer’s asylum policy. Hiring an experienced immigration lawyer can help asylum seekers obtain protection before stricter requirements are introduced.
Spotted something? Got a story? Send a Facebook Message | A direct message on Twitter | Email: [email protected]
Latest News
Police commissioner funds MMA project in Queensferry
North Wales MS backs basketball as force for inclusion and health
RCN Wales welcomes NHS accountability move by Welsh Government
Join our no-spam low volume email list:
Get notified about
news from across North Wales