Dominic Casciani: How achievable is Reform's plan on migration?

Dominic Casciani: How achievable is Reform's plan on migration?

Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, has unveiled a new policy aimed at addressing what he describes as “uncontrolled illegal migration.” The proposal includes changes to human rights laws and mass deportations. However, the feasibility of these plans is now being questioned.

The document presented by the party did not specify the exact number of illegal migrants to be deported. During the announcement, Farage asked Reform UK chair Zia Yusuf whether it was realistic to deport between 500,000 and 600,000 individuals within the first Parliament under a Reform UK government. Yusuf responded affirmatively to this proposal. The party intends to establish secure facilities to detain approximately 24,000 individuals for deportation each month, totaling 288,000 deportations per year.

These targets set by Reform UK surpass any previous government’s deportation achievements. The party’s plan includes the use of “cutting edge data fusion” to locate individuals living in the UK without authorization. This approach would grant the state access to a wide range of personal data, raising concerns about privacy and data protection laws.

In addition to the logistical challenges posed by Reform UK’s proposal, there are financial considerations to be addressed. Building detention facilities to house 24,000 individuals within 18 months could cost an estimated £12 billion. The party’s plan to construct “modular accommodation” in remote areas of the UK raises questions about security standards, location, and potential opposition from local communities.

Reform UK’s strategy also involves withdrawing from international treaties, such as the European Convention on Human Rights and the UN Convention Against Torture. While this move may face legal challenges and impact international relationships, the party believes it is necessary to achieve their objectives. Ultimately, the practicality and consequences of Reform UK’s proposals remain subject to debate and scrutiny

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