On Wednesday, the Illegal Migration Bill had its Report Stage and Third Reading in the House of Commons.
Richard Fuller MP said:
At a recent meeting with constituents in Sharnbrook, I mentioned that I supported the Illegal Migration Bill but would be looking for some targeted amendments.
On Wednesday during Report Stage and Third Reading of the Bill, I joined with Tim Loughton and other Conservative MPs to persuade the Home Secretary to make changes that will bring forward plans to the scope of "safe and legal" routes, and more protection from detention for children who enter the country through illegal routes.
The Bill remains contentious but I believe many of its provisions are needed as part of a comprehensive plan to tackle people smugglers and 'stop the boats'.
New clause 8 adopted by the Government was originally in the name of Tim Loughton and supported by Richard. It would require the Secretary of State, within six months of the Bill’s enactment, to prepare and publish a report on safe and legal routes of entry to the UK. The Government has also adopted amendment 11, also originally proposed by Tim Loughton and supported by Richard, which would require consultation with local authorities on the cap on the number of people who may enter the UK through specified safe and legal routes to begin within three months of the Bill’s passing.
More information on the Illegal Migration Bill can be found here.
