Britain has announced it could reduce the number of visas granted to countries that refuse to accept the return of their nationals who have no legal right to remain in the UK. The move follows discussions with allies, including the United States, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand—members of the long-standing Five Eyes intelligence-sharing partnership.
Newly appointed home secretary Shabana Mahmood said the policy reflects a tougher approach to border control amid public concern over illegal migration and small boat crossings.
“This announcement sends a clear message to anyone seeking to undermine our border security. If you have no legal right to remain in the UK, we will deport you. If countries refuse to take their citizens back, we will take action,” Mahmood said.
U.S. secretary of homeland security Kristi Noem added that the nations agreed to share criminal background information of migrants and collaborate against cartels exploiting social media and technology.
Mahmood emphasized that countries must cooperate with deportations, warning that visa restrictions could be enforced if necessary.
“That does mean saying to countries who do not take their citizens back, that we’re not simply going to allow our laws to remain unenforced, that they do have to play ball. And if cutting visas is one of the ways to do that, then I’ll do whatever it takes,” she told broadcasters.
This move comes after Reform UK leader Nigel Farage promised swift action on illegal migration to the UK within two weeks of taking power.
