Additional Coverage:
- Reform UK proposes deporting 600,000 asylum seekers in sweeping new immigration crackdown (foxnews.com)
Reform UK Proposes Controversial Plan to Deport Asylum Seekers
Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, has unveiled a controversial plan to address the UK’s migrant crisis, proposing the deportation of 600,000 asylum seekers. Farage, speaking at a press conference, warned of impending “civil disorder” due to what he called an “invasion” of migrants illegally entering the country.
The plan, dubbed “Operation Restoring Justice,” calls for Britain’s withdrawal from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and the repeal of the Human Rights Act, along with other international treaties that prevent forced deportations. Farage argues that intercepting and immediately deporting migrants at sea is the “only way” to stop small boat crossings in the English Channel. He claims that removing any incentive for crossing would quickly deter further attempts.
This proposal has drawn sharp criticism. Labour Party Chairwoman Ellie Reeves criticized the plan for lacking detail and failing to address practical, financial, and ethical considerations.
Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook dismissed it as a series of ineffective “gimmicks.” Opponents and various charities have expressed concerns that the plan would lead to Britain abandoning its human rights obligations.
The ECHR, a cornerstone of UK human rights law, has frequently been used to prevent the deportation of migrants deemed to be in the country illegally.
The announcement comes amid rising public concern over immigration, fueled by recent small protests focusing on mass migration and crimes committed by some asylum seekers. In 2024, Britain received a record 108,100 asylum applications, primarily from countries like Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and Bangladesh.
Recent polls indicate that immigration has surpassed the economy as the top concern for voters. Despite holding only four seats in Parliament, Reform UK is currently leading in some voting intention surveys.