UK asylum seekers to face £10,000 charge before settlement application

The UK government is introducing a policy that would mandate asylum seekers to repay approximately £10,000 for the costs associated with their accommodation and living support before they are permitted to submit an application for settlement. This initiative is designed with the dual purpose of deterring individuals from engaging in illegal migration and alleviating the financial strain on the nation's taxpayers. The proposed policy includes specific exemptions for children and incorporates safeguards intended to prevent adults from falling into destitution.

In a separate development, former British Prime Minister John Major has voiced strong disapproval of the right-wing political party Reform UK. Major characterized the party as a 'ragbag' and accused it of scapegoating minority groups, specifically mentioning Muslims and migrants. He asserted that the party fails to offer any positive contributions or solutions. Major pointed to the party's recent electoral successes and drew attention to what he described as alleged racist remarks made by some of its elected councillors.