David Simmonds MP and Neil Coyle MP: The Nationality and Borders Bill risks exposing significantly more migrants to destitution and exploitation
David Simmonds MP (Conservative) and Neil Coyle MP (Labour) authored a joint op-ed for Politics Home on 19 July. It highlights how the New Plan for Immigration will increase the number of people who are subject to NRPF and thereby exposed to destitution and exploitation.
The Bill will remove a large part of the social safety net within the asylum system by denying migrants access to public funds. We are determined to make the case for a fairer and more efficient immigration system.
As the Nationality and Borders Bill makes its way through Parliament, this feels like a timely moment for reflection. Although we have different perspectives on many issues, we both recognise that the immigration system must prioritise fairness for all British taxpayers.
As a cross-party group of parliamentarians with a desire for a fair and efficient immigration system, we note that the public have broad support for migrants in our country. This is due, in part, to the recognition that many of the key workers who have kept our country running during these difficult times are people who have come to the UK in search of safety and with a desire to contribute to their new surroundings.