UK-Asylum crisis Asylum Update: Migrants in Hotels Rise, Deportations Increase

[CharlieH]

 

Labour-run councils are among those considering legal actions against hotels housing asylum seekers

 

 

The number of asylum seekers temporarily housed in UK hotels has seen an 8% rise under Labour compared to the same period last year, according to the latest Home Office data.

 

Despite this yearly increase, recent months indicate a slight reduction, with numbers dropping from 32,345 in March to 32,059 in June 2025.The government's expenditure on asylum has also decreased, standing at £4.76 billion for the fiscal year 2024/25—a 12% reduction from the previous year's record of £5.38 billion. Amidst these figures, Labour-run councils are exploring legal challenges against the continued use of hotels for asylum seekers, as authorities seek alternative solutions.

 

Carol Dean, leader of the Labour-controlled Tamworth Council, mentioned that the council is "carefully assessing" potential legal actions and described this as a "potentially important legal precedent." Similar actions have been suggested by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who called on Tory councils to emulate the successful legal challenge by Epping Forest District Council.

 

Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, has also urged his party's councils to pursue legal avenues.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasised that the current Labour administration inherited a "broken immigration and asylum system" and highlighted efforts to increase the return of failed asylum seekers while reducing related costs. She pointed to a 30% increase in deportations and an 11% cut in asylum expenses as evidence of progress.

 

Cooper stated, "We inherited a chaotic system... but have since strengthened visa and immigration controls. With the reduction of the backlog by 18% and reforms to the asylum appeal system, we aim to restore order and end the inefficient use of hotels."

 

The Home Secretary also noted a 48% decrease in work visas, and outlined plans for further stringent visa controls. Upcoming initiatives include a pilot program with France, enhanced counter-terror measures, and new asylum process reforms expected later this year.

 

"As we roll out these reforms, we are committed to taking necessary steps to ensure a fair and controlled system," Cooper added, pointing towards a more robust approach to managing immigration and asylum in the UK.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Independent 2025-08-21