Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill Report Stage: New Clause 3

What happened: The House of Commons voted on 12 May 2025 on New Clause 3, a proposed amendment to the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill during its Report Stage (the stage at which MPs debate and vote on changes to a bill after it has been examined in committee). The clause, which sought to soften or modify the government's approach to asylum and immigration policy, was defeated by 318 votes to 90.

Why it matters: The defeat of New Clause 3 means the government's original provisions in the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill remain intact on this point. The amendment had sought to advance protections or alter procedures relating to asylum seekers, and its rejection signals that the government's tougher stance on immigration control will proceed through the legislation. The bill as a whole affects how the UK processes asylum claims, manages its borders, and treats those who arrive seeking protection, making these votes significant for anyone affected by or working within the asylum system.

The politics: The amendment attracted support from a cross-party bloc of liberal and smaller parties, including 62 Liberal Democrats, 7 SNP members, 4 Greens, 3 Plaid Cymru members, 2 Democratic Unionists, and 5 Labour MPs who broke with their party to vote in favour. The government whipped Labour and Labour and Co-operative MPs firmly against, with 314 voting no. Reform UK, despite its hardline immigration rhetoric, also voted against the amendment alongside the government. The vote sits within a busy day of Report Stage divisions on the same bill, all of which the government won comfortably, culminating in the bill passing its Third Reading by 316 to 95.