In a move that has taken both supporters and critics by surprise, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has unveiled the Labour government’s new Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill. This legislation retains several contentious measures from the previous administration’s Illegal Migration Act, signaling a significant shift in the party’s approach to immigration.
The proposed bill aims to address the ongoing small boats crisis by implementing stricter controls on illegal migration. Notably, it continues the ban on illegal migrants accessing modern slavery protections and permits the detention of child migrants for up to 28 days. Additionally, the bill introduces enhanced powers for authorities to combat people smuggling, including the seizure of mobile phones and financial assets, as well as authorizing Border Force officers to conduct personal searches on migrants. Investigators will also be empowered to copy data from mobile devices for use in prosecutions. ([thetimes.co.uk](https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/labours-border-bill-ban-migrants-slavery-protections-xskmbgfpb?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
This development marks a departure from Labour’s previous stance, as the party had opposed similar measures under the Conservative government in 2023. The decision to retain these elements appears to be a strategic move to mitigate political attacks from opposing parties and to demonstrate a firm commitment to border security. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/uk-keep-ban-asylum-seekers-claiming-modern-slavery-protections-2025-01-30/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
The bill also proposes the introduction of serious crime prevention orders against suspected smugglers, imposing restrictions on travel, internet use, and financial activities. Labour hopes that these measures will help dismantle people-smuggling networks and curb the rising number of small boat arrivals in the UK. ([thetimes.co.uk](https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/labours-border-bill-ban-migrants-slavery-protections-xskmbgfpb?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Prime Minister Starmer’s announcement has elicited a range of reactions. Supporters argue that the bill demonstrates a pragmatic approach to a complex issue, balancing compassion with the need for robust border controls. Critics, however, express concern that the retention of controversial measures may undermine the rights of vulnerable individuals seeking asylum and question the potential impact on the UK’s international reputation.
As the bill progresses through Parliament, it is expected to spark intense debate among lawmakers, advocacy groups, and the public. The outcome will not only shape the UK’s immigration policy but also serve as a defining moment for Prime Minister Starmer’s leadership and the Labour government’s approach to complex social issues.
– [thetimes.co.uk](https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/labours-border-bill-ban-migrants-slavery-protections-xskmbgfpb?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– [reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/uk-keep-ban-asylum-seekers-claiming-modern-slavery-protections-2025-01-30/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
