Our response to the Illegal Migration Bill becoming law

Responding to the news that the Illegal Migration Bill has passed and will become law, Katie Morrison, CEO of Safe Passage International said:

“Today is an extremely sad day in Britain’s history. The passing of this Government's Refugee Ban Bill slams the door shut on people fleeing war and persecution who are simply trying to reach a place of safety, and to be reunited with their family. This is a blanket ban on sanctuary that will punish refugees for trying to access their basic human right to safety, having been forced from their homes.

Despite what this Government may have us believe, the vast majority of people who are forced to cross the Channel are in need of protection. This includes very vulnerable refugee children, fleeing torture, airstrikes and enforced conscription, and often separated from their closest family. Instead, they will be detained in grim detention facilities, or dumped in hotels at risk of exploitation and abuse – causing immense mental suffering.

Every child deserves a chance to be safe and live their life. Even as this Bill becomes law, we won’t stop campaigning for change. Our work will continue until the Government welcomes those seeking safety and supports refugees and their families to rebuild their lives here in the UK"