Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 18
18
We asked what the Department could learn from its analysis of late asylum claims to...
Conclusion
We asked what the Department could learn from its analysis of late asylum claims to reduce the number of these. The NAO reported that the Department failed to complete 62% of the returns it planned from immigration detention in 2019, compared to 56% in 2018.49 We heard how decisions and trends elsewhere in the system, for example changes in the legal framework and greater compliance on immigration rules, affect the Department’s success in completing returns. The Department explained that a large number of asylum claims in detention slowed down some elements of the immigration system, but it did not specify which elements. We questioned whether other factors such as the Department’s decision to reduce the financial package for voluntary returns or earlier access to good quality legal advice could influence the successful resolution of cases.50 The Department told us it had not directly assessed the possible impact of legal advice, but it believed legal advice could allow cases to flow more smoothly through the system. The Department was not aware of any analysis it had conducted on whether the cost of providing that advice would save money later in the process, but it offered to confirm that point.51 49 C&AG’s Report, para 2.29, Figure 12 50 Qq 79, 80, 82 51 Qq 100, 101 Immigration enforcement 15 3 Planning for the future The impact of EU exit on the immigration enforcement system
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.