UK Home Secretary Suspends Refugee Family Reunion Scheme Amid Asylum Crackdown

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced a temporary suspension of new applications under the refugee family reunion scheme, citing concerns that people smugglers exploit the route to encourage dangerous Channel crossings. Under the new rules to be implemented next year, refugees granted asylum will need to apply through the standard family migration scheme, which requires demonstrating a minimum joint income of £29,000 annually. This move follows a sharp increase in family reunion visas and mounting public protests over asylum seeker accommodation. Critics, including refugee charities and advocates, warn that the suspension will push vulnerable refugees, especially women and children, towards illegal and unsafe journeys, undermining safe legal options for family reunification. Cooper defended the changes as necessary to combat criminal gangs and alleviate pressure on local authorities, while promising further reforms and faster asylum appeals. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has indicated a focus on immigration issues and hinted at potentially accelerating the closure of asylum hotels, emphasizing a broader government push toward delivery on immigration and asylum challenges.