Senior religious leaders are urging Andy Burnham to start fresh and revise the government’s asylum policies. A group of 39 influential figures from the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim communities in the UK have sent a message to the Prime Minister, emphasizing the importance of defining the nation’s values. They expressed concerns that the current approach is harming social unity and highlighted the significance of welcoming displaced individuals as new members of society.
The leaders emphasized that refugees and asylum seekers share the same desires for safety, community contribution, and family well-being. They stressed the need to uphold values and collaborate to shape a better future for the country. The call for change comes following the introduction of a new Immigration and Asylum Bill by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, which includes controversial elements such as requiring successful asylum seekers to repay £10,000 and undergoing regular reviews instead of receiving permanent protection.
The religious leaders, including prominent figures like Imam Qari Asim and Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg, are advocating for the reinstatement of full refugee family reunion rights and maintaining the current five-year pathway to indefinite leave to remain for successful asylum seekers. They oppose the proposed extended waiting period for permanent settlement and the potential forced return of individuals if their home countries are deemed safe.
Rabbi David Mason from the Jewish refugee charity HIAS+JCORE emphasized the need for a reset in the UK’s refugee and asylum policies under Burnham’s leadership. The leaders are urging for a compassionate and inclusive approach that aligns with the values of solidarity and partnership within society. They argue that a shift towards unity and cohesion is essential to address rising hate and insecurity in communities.
While the Home Secretary defends her plans as necessary for safeguarding the asylum system for future generations, the proposed changes have sparked criticism from Labour MPs and faith leaders alike. The religious representatives emphasize that a fair and well-managed immigration system should go hand in hand with compassion for those fleeing persecution. They call for a system that respects the dignity of every individual and ensures a just and orderly process for refugees seeking safety in the UK.