Source · Select Committees · Home Affairs Committee
Recommendation 5
5
Deferred
Paragraph: 60
Address long delays in asylum casework system to ensure effective route to safety
Conclusion
Given the threats of imprisonment under the new security law faced by some Hong Kong young people, the asylum system should be another appropriate route for them to be able to follow. It is troubling that we have heard they are deterred from doing so. The current delays in the asylum system which leave young people—not just from Hong Kong—unable to study or work potentially for years before their cases are resolved are a serious problem. The Home Office must urgently address the long delays in the asylum casework system that are preventing it from operating as an effective route to safety and security for those in need of sanctuary.
Government Response Summary
The government's response describes the Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) as a temporary route for cultural exchange that does not lead to settlement, failing to address the recommendation to urgently tackle long delays in the asylum casework system.
Paragraph Reference:
60
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
6. The YMS is a dedicated route for young people aged 18 to 30 from participating countries and territories to experience life in the UK for up to two years. The route allows for cultural exchange between participating countries or territories and is designed for young people to experience living in another country for a short period of time. Temporary routes are designed for living in the UK temporarily and should not be used to live in the UK for longer periods. Consequently, the YMS is not a route that leads to settlement, in line with other temporary routes to the UK such as the seasonal worker visa or charity worker visa.