Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is facing criticism from the anti-slavery watchdog, accused of jeopardizing the safety of vulnerable individuals. The Cabinet minister expressed discontent with the application of modern slavery laws to halt the deportation of migrants, labeling it as a distortion of the legal system. This reaction followed a recent High Court ruling that prevented the removal of an asylum seeker under the UK’s agreement with France.
However, Anti-Slavery Commissioner Eleanor Lyons raised concerns about the detrimental impact of Mahmood’s statements on victims of exploitation, potentially deterring them from seeking help. She emphasized that the Home Office holds the authority to determine cases of modern slavery, a process scrutinized by parliamentary committees without evidence of misuse. Lyons emphasized that attributing misuse to the system endangers vulnerable lives.
The Government faced a setback when the High Court blocked the deportation of an Eritrean man under the “one in, one out” policy. The individual, whose identity remains undisclosed for legal reasons, was granted a temporary reprieve and has been given a deadline to substantiate claims of modern slavery victimization.
In response, the Home Office plans to challenge the court’s decision and Mahmood is leading an urgent review of the Modern Slavery Act to prevent potential exploitation. Mahmood criticized last-minute claims of modern slavery by migrants facing removal, pledging to defend public interests and border security vigorously.
Senior Treasury minister James Murray refuted claims that Labour had abandoned its principles, stressing the Government’s commitment to addressing public concerns about illegal migration. A recent bilateral agreement with France aims to curb small boat crossings, marking a significant milestone post-Brexit. The UK will return asylum seekers who crossed the Channel in exchange for approved individuals seeking entry into Britain.
Legal representatives for the Eritrean man highlighted the risk of destitution if deported to France, prompting the court to consider the validity of the trafficking allegation and the Secretary of State’s investigative procedures.
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