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More asylum seekers whose claims have failed will be detained under government plans outlined today, writes Clare Jerrom.

Charles Clarke

The Home Office’s five-year strategy explained that the detention estate will be expanded with 300 new places by 2007.

The government also pledged that by the end of 2005, more failed asylum seekers will be removed than there are unsuccessful applicants. There will also be a closer management of asylum claims with tighter controls being introduced throughout the system, such as voice verification and tagging.

“We will build on our achievements with asylum, cracking down further on those who seek to exploit our system,” said home secretary Charles Clarke. “More claims will be fast-tracked and we will have tighter controls throughout the process.”

“People who are genuinely fleeing persecution will be able to find a safe haven in this country but we will be tough on those trying to exploit the system,” he added.

The five-year strategy also outlines plans to grant refugees temporary leave rather than permanent status while the government reviews whether the situation in their country has improved. If after five years the situation has not improved, permanent status would be granted.

The government has already reduced the number of appeals an asylum seeker can make against a decision and this will be extended to migration routes by abolishing appeals for those seeking to enter the UK to study or work. There will also be a points system for those coming to the UK to work or study.

Fixed penalty fines of £2,000 will be imposed on employers for each illegal worker they employ.

‘Controlling our borders: making migration work for Britain’ from www.homeoffice.gov.uk