The LRB Podcast On Politics: Inside Britain’s Asylum System
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Dec 10, 2025 Colin Yeo, a barrister and immigration law expert, and Nicola Kelly, a writer and former Home Office civil servant, dive deep into Britain's asylum system. They explore the recent proposals by the Labour party, emphasizing the detrimental effects of longer probationary periods on integration. Nicola highlights the human toll of draconian policies, advocating for a compassionate public discourse. They also discuss the origins of small boat crossings and challenge the narratives linking asylum seekers to crime, suggesting practical policy fixes to address ongoing issues.
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Policy Punishes Residents Not Numbers
- The proposed rules won't reduce immigration numbers; they punish migrants already here by delaying settlement to around ten years.
- Colin Yeo warns this will hinder integration and make migrants more precarious and exploitable.
Human Stories Missing From Debate
- Public debate focuses on politics and numbers while neglecting migrants' personal stories and human needs.
- Nicola Kelly argues humanising migrants and reframing rhetoric should be central to policy discussions.
'Illegal' Entry Is Legally Complex
- 'Illegal migrant' technically means someone who breaks immigration law, but refugees often aren't legally penalised for entry.
- Colin Yeo stresses prosecuting refugees has little deterrent effect and can clog prisons.
