- Home Secretary of UK Yvette Cooper is reviewing Article 8 of the Human Rights Act in immigration cases.
- The review aims to address irregular migration and strengthen border control.
- Cooper announced stricter checks on gig economy employers to curb illegal work.
- An international summit on migration crime will be held in London.
Yvette Cooper Reviews Right to Family Life in Immigration Cases
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced a review of how Article 8 of the Human Rights Act, which protects the right to family life, is applied in UK immigration cases. The review is part of broader efforts to address irregular migration and reduce the record number of people crossing the Channel in small boats.
Focus on Article 8 and Irregular Migration
Article 8 has been at the center of several controversial asylum cases, including one earlier this year involving a Palestinian family who were allowed to remain in the UK after applying through the Ukrainian Family Scheme. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has referred to such cases as a ‘loophole’ in the immigration system. Cooper emphasized the need to ensure the immigration and asylum system operates as intended by Parliament, maintaining a ‘proper sense of control.’
Crackdown on Illegal Work in the Gig Economy
In addition to the review, Cooper announced stricter measures targeting gig economy employers, such as takeaways and barber shops, who hire workers without proper visa status. Employers will now be required to conduct eligibility checks for all workers, including contractors. Failure to comply could result in fines of up to £60,000, closures, or even prison sentences for directors.
International Summit on Migration Crime
Cooper will host an international summit in London, bringing together representatives from over 40 countries to discuss strategies for tackling organized migration crime. The summit will focus on criminal finances, supply routes, and online advertisements for people smuggling. Countries such as Albania, Vietnam, and Iraq, which are significant sources of migrants to the UK, will participate alongside France, the US, and China.
Broader Immigration Reforms
The government is also expanding right-to-work checks to cover casual and temporary workers under amendments to the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill. The bill includes new criminal offenses and counter-terror-style powers for law enforcement agencies to combat people-smuggling gangs. Cooper highlighted a 40% increase in illegal working raids since the election, with over 19,000 people returned who had no right to be in the UK.
Challenges and Criticisms
While Cooper’s measures aim to address irregular migration, critics argue that the government’s decision to scrap the Conservatives’ Rwanda plan has weakened deterrence. Shadow Chancellor Alex Burghart criticized the move, stating that it has left the UK without an effective deterrent program. Cooper, however, remains focused on strengthening enforcement and international cooperation to tackle the root causes of irregular migration.