Morning, Friday, 22nd November 2024
Online
This conference will examine next steps for the UK asylum system Bill, with a focus on practical considerations for the implementation of proposed reforms to the asylum system and enhancing border security.
It will be an opportunity for stakeholders and policymakers to assess measures expected in the Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration, alongside the recent announcement by the Home Secretary of increased immigration enforcement over the next six months. We expect discussion on planned measures around detention capacity, specialist recruitment, enforcement and returns, targeting illegal employment, and international collaboration.
Delegates will assess progress and potential impact of the commitment to increase return flights for those who have had their asylum applications rejected and the reopening of immigration removal centres, as well as potential alternatives to the use of detention programmes.
The agenda looks at implementation priorities for the Border Security Command and new approaches to collaborative frameworks within the UK, with the EU and more widely internationally. The planned increase in powers for law enforcement officers to investigate organised immigration crime will also be considered, including implications for law enforcement agencies and their partners.
Amidst continuing concerns surrounding backlogs in the processing of asylum applications, and in the context of the Home Secretary’s recent commitments to increase immigration and enforcement returns activity over the next six months, delegates will consider priorities for developing efficiency in case management, training, and what will be needed to ensure that the system has capacity to clear backlogs.
Further discussion will focus on enhancing multi-agency and cross-sector collaboration and joint-working, including new approaches and frameworks for the care of asylum seekers, alongside how collaboration can best be incentivised, supported and managed going forward to improve system effectiveness. Best practice in effective coordination between legal advice providers, local authorities, and the voluntary sector will also be discussed, looking at how best to address housing challenges and support individuals with complex needs - as well as priorities for security and enforcement cooperation with the EU, and options for establishing safer routes into the UK.
We are pleased to be able to include keynote sessions with: Daniel Hobbs, Director General, Migration and Borders, Home Office; Jon Featonby, Chief Policy Analyst, Refugee Council; and Vicky Tennant, UNHCR Representative to the United Kingdom, UNHCR. Further senior participants are being approached.
All delegates will be able to contribute to the output of the conference, which will be shared with parliamentary, ministerial, departmental and regulatory offices. This includes the full proceedings and additional articles submitted by delegates. Those due to attend include officials from DfE; DCEDIY; FCDO; Home Office; ICIBI; LAA; MHCLG; NAO; The Scottish Government; and the Welsh Government
