Committee publication · Correspondence · 7 July 2026
Letter from the Minister for Border Security & Asylum relating to the introduction of the Immigration and Asylum Bill 30.06.2026
From: Home Affairs Committee
Summary
Alex Norris MP, Minister for Border Security & Asylum, notifies the Home Affairs Select Committee chair that the Government has introduced the Immigration and Asylum Bill on 30 June 2026, following its inclusion in the King's Speech. The Bill implements reforms announced in the November 2025 Restoring Order and Control statement, including creation of an independent appeals authority, tightening Article 8 (ECHR) applications, consolidating asylum protections, requiring asylum seeker cost contributions, and reforming modern slavery protections.
Key findings
- Government cites 31% increase in returns over 19 months (July 2024 onwards) and secured cooperation from countries previously refusing to take back nationals
- Bill establishes Independent Immigration Appeals Authority as statutory body to expedite removals and deliver 'fair, fast' appeals system
- Tightens Article 8 ECHR application to emphasise compliance with rules and economic/social contribution, aligning with Strasbourg caselaw and Council of Europe declaration
- Introduces 'Core Protection' model combining refugee status and humanitarian protection; enables restrictive leave provisions (e.g. removing public funds access) for asylum seekers/refugees convicted of serious crimes
- Grants new powers to require asylum seekers in taxpayer-funded accommodation to contribute costs when financially able; reforms modern slavery framework to prevent improper use while protecting victims
Tone
ProceduralTopics
Key actors
Alex Norris MP, Dame Karen Bradley MP, Home Affairs Select Committee, UK Government, Independent Immigration Appeals Authority, Council of Europe
Notable line
“… the most significant policy proposals on asylum in a generation.”
Key Quotes
“The Immigration and Asylum Bill will bring into effect the main reforms announced in the Restoring Order and Control statement in November 2025, the most significant policy proposals on asylum in a generation.”
“This will be instrumental to delivering an appeals system that is fair, fast, and can cope with increasing volumes.”
“These changes will align us with Strasbourg caselaw and is consistent with the Council of Europe declaration, restoring consistency across decision-making.”
Source · parliament.uk record ↗