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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Refugee Convention Protects, Not Guarantees Entry
- The Refugee Convention doesn't grant a right of entry but protects refugees from penalisation once inside.
- Colin Yeo notes states balance border control with obligations not to return people to persecution.
International Law Isn't The Real Barrier
- Withdrawing from ECHR or the Refugee Convention won't magically solve removals; practical cooperation (e.g. with France) matters more.
- Colin Yeo argues international law can enable, not block, workable removal agreements.
How Small-Boat Crossings Escalated
- Small-boat crossings surged after 2018 and were shaped by COVID disruptions that closed freight routes.
- Nicola Kelly says smuggling networks grew during the bottleneck, making boats a dominant mode since 2018.
