Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 16
16
We asked whether Immigration Enforcement should focus on in-country immigration enforcement rather than having to...
Conclusion
We asked whether Immigration Enforcement should focus on in-country immigration enforcement rather than having to provide support at the border. The Department responded that it sees managing immigration into the country and in- country as a single system.41 However, the NAO reported that the Department “does not yet manage” immigration enforcement as an end-to-end system.42 The Department accepted the need for an end-to-end perspective which supports a smoother route for people through its immigration enforcement processes.43 The Department said it is working with Ministers to address issues affecting its ability to move people’s cases forward. It also believes that its modernisation programmes will better support that end-to-end perspective.44 The Department claimed, though, that there were examples where it worked together as a “seamless whole”. We suggested that these examples were thin on the ground in the NAO’s report and requested more specific details.45
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
4.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Summer 2025 4.2 The department has significant plans in place to deliver a more joined-up and end-to-end immigration system. The Borders, Immigration and Citizenship System now has a unified mission, alongside a comprehensive five-year transformation programme that seeks to deliver a modernised immigration system that focuses on the customer journey. 4.3 Digitised application processes - already live for student visas - will improve system coordination, enhance customer experience through simplified rules and remote biometric capture, and provide enhanced management information, ensuring that problems are identified and addressed early. A digital identity capability will enable customers to view and prove their immigration status easily. An integral part of the department’s modernisation programme, shaped by Wendy Williams’ Lessons Learned Review, aims to help drive greater understanding of customer needs and strengthen oversight of customer issues. As noted above, the department is reaching out to those who are affected by the immigration system through ongoing community events and the new Young People’s Board to gain insight and incorporate feedback into policy and process design. 4.4 The department is developing proposals for a fairer and firmer system that deters and prevents illegal migration; delivers more support and a speedy and efficient system for those genuinely fleeing persecution; and facilitates the swift removal of those with no right to remain in the UK. As part of these reforms, consideration will be given to a wide range of options, including the support that claimants are able to access at different points in their immigration journey.