London, UK, March 6, 2023 — Laura Kyrke-Smith, Executive Director of the International Rescue Committee UK, says
“The Bill will not stop small boats crossing the Channel. It will only add to the trauma of the people in these boats, while further damaging Britain’s global reputation for fairness and compassion.
The majority of new arrivals are fleeing worsening conflict, violence and persecution, from Afghanistan to Syria, and they go on to be recognised as refugees by the UK Government. They risk their lives in small boats because there is no way to claim asylum from outside of the UK, and there are almost no safe routes to travel and claim asylum here.
There is a compassionate and effective alternative to the Bill. First, establish safe routes for those who need them. Second, reinforce the asylum system to ensure that claims are heard fairly, decisions are made quickly, and the people at the heart of the system can move on with their lives, whether in the UK or elsewhere.”