The UK government is preparing to introduce a controversial policy allowing authorities to confiscate jewellery and other non-essential valuables from asylum seekers to help fund the cost of processing their claims. The proposal, confirmed by Home Office minister Alex Norris, forms part of a sweeping overhaul of migration rules set to be announced in Parliament on Monday.
Speaking ahead of the announcement, Norris stressed that sentimental items such as wedding rings would not be seized, but admitted that other valuable belongings could be taken. The move mirrors tough Danish asylum policies as Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood seeks to curb migration numbers and demonstrate a firmer stance on illegal entry.
Government Says Public Should Not Shoulder All Costs
Norris defended the measure as a matter of fairness to taxpayers, saying that the British public currently pays “billions of pounds a year” to support asylum seekers, including those whose claims have been rejected. He added that many arrivals possess assets such as cars or electric bikes, and should therefore contribute to the cost of their accommodation and living expenses.
While he insisted heirlooms would not be confiscated, Norris said Mahmood would provide full details when presenting the new policy package to MPs. He reiterated that sentimental items like wedding rings are exempt, but noted that “a bag full of gold rings” would not fall under the same category.
Possible Diplomatic Sanctions on Countries Blocking Returns
Norris also confirmed that foreign governments refusing to repatriate their nationals after asylum rejections could face new diplomatic penalties, including visa restrictions. According to media briefings, Angola, Namibia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are among the countries being considered for such measures.
He said too many individuals remain in taxpayer-funded accommodation despite having exhausted all legal appeals, blaming some countries for failing to assist with returns even when bilateral agreements exist.
Refugees to Face Regular Status Reviews Under Stricter Rulebook
The Home Office will also introduce a 30-month review cycle for refugee status, meaning individuals could be deported if their country is no longer deemed unsafe—even families with young children settled in UK schools.
Mahmood has argued that the reforms are necessary to counter “dark forces … stirring up anger” over migration, but the proposals have already sparked unease among Labour MPs. At least one minister is reportedly on resignation watch.
Charities Warn of ‘Another Windrush Scandal’
Human rights groups and refugee organisations have condemned the plans, warning they could destabilise families, disrupt childhood education, and trap people in long-term uncertainty.
Charities say ramping up deportations of refugees and repeatedly reassessing their safety will place thousands in “near-permanent limbo” and risks repeating the injustices of the Windrush scandal, where lawful residents were wrongly targeted with deportation.
Labour Under Pressure Over Migration
The shake-up comes amid mounting political pressure on the government as asylum backlogs, high accommodation costs, and rising small-boat crossings continue to dominate public debate. Labour has faced criticism from both the opposition and sections of its own party, especially after it confirmed plans to maintain the Rwanda partnership framework—though without relocating asylum seekers there. Mahmood has repeatedly framed the new reforms as essential to restoring “order and credibility” to the immigration system.
