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Asylum Seekers Work Illegally as Delivery Riders in UK

6/26/2025

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Asylum Seekers Protest

Asylum seekers in the UK are taking to the streets as illegal delivery riders, defying rules that prohibit work during their application process. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp is calling for accountability from delivery firms that facilitate this violation. The government is set to engage with these companies, stressing the urgency for stricter enforcement measures.

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Smith Critiques Labour's Asylum Plan

Former UK Border Force Director General Tony Smith slammed Labour's asylum hotel target as "unrealistic," pointing to a staggering backlog of over 108,000 asylum applications. He cautioned that shutting down hotels would merely transfer financial burdens to local authorities. David Bolt, the borders watchdog chief, joined him in voicing serious concerns over Labour's migrant strategy.

History

Historical Context

The UK's Immigration and Asylum Act of 2004 restricted asylum seekers from working while their applications were processed, contributing to a backlog of over 108,000 cases. This policy has sparked protests, reflecting growing frustration among asylum seekers and highlighting the strain on local authorities. The UK, a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, faces increasing pressure to reform its asylum process.

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Asylum Seekers Protest

Asylum seekers in the UK are taking to the streets as illegal delivery riders, defying rules that prohibit work during their application process. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp is calling for accountability from delivery firms that facilitate this violation. The government is set to engage with these companies, stressing the urgency for stricter enforcement measures.

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