The Story ‘Repugnant’ or necessary? The new asylum rules
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Nov 18, 2025 
Ben Clatworthy, Whitehall editor at The Times, and Fraser Nelson, Times columnist, dive into the UK Home Secretary's recent sweeping asylum reforms, the most significant since WWII. They dissect Denmark's strict asylum policies that inspired these changes, weighing their necessity against criticisms labeling them 'repugnant.' Discussion includes the introduction of temporary refugee status, tightened family rights, and controversial asset recovery plans. The duo debates whether these measures signify a permanent shift in European leftist policies toward tougher immigration stances.
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Temporary Refugee Status And Longer Settlement
- Shabana Mahmood's package makes refugee status temporary and delays permanent settlement to 20 years to deter illegal arrivals.
- The government will boost family returns and restrict appeals to speed removals and reduce attractiveness of UK routes.
Assets To Offset Support Costs
- The plan targets undeclared assets like cars and cash to recoup support costs and discourage arrivals.
- Media talk of confiscating jewellery was overstated; policy focuses on larger assets and undeclared funds.
Appeals Curbed And Legal Hurdles Ahead
- The government will curb appeal routes and instruct judges to prioritise public safety over family life claims under Article 8.
- Legal challenges via international courts are likely to slow implementation.