UK may cut visas for countries refusing to take back migrants, says Mahmood

 

The UK could suspend visas for countries that do not cooperate with migrant return agreements, according to the new home secretary, Shabana Mahmood. Speaking at a meeting of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance in London, she said the government expects foreign nations to accept their citizens who have no legal right to remain in Britain. Mahmood, who took office on Friday, described border security as her top priority and said the UK would work closely with allies in the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand to develop a tougher joint approach.

Her warning came after one of the highest daily tallies of Channel crossings was recorded on Saturday, when 1,097 people arrived by small boats. The latest figures bring the total this year to more than 30,000, an increase of 37 percent compared with 2023. Mahmood said the number was “utterly unacceptable” and highlighted the government’s determination to reduce arrivals.

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Sir Keir Starmer has previously suggested that visa access could be linked to how well countries cooperate with Britain on returns. The idea is now gaining traction as Labour faces pressure to show it is serious about border control and tackling people smuggling networks.

Mahmood made her comments alongside US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Canadian Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree, Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, and New Zealand Minister Judith Collins. 

The summit covered migration, child sexual abuse and the trafficking of opioids. Mahmood said she wanted stronger cooperation with international partners to protect borders and disrupt criminal networks. She added that coordinated action between the Five Eyes countries could send a clear signal to nations refusing to take back their nationals.

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The government is also exploring new ways to manage asylum accommodation. Defence Secretary John Healey confirmed that ministers are considering expanded use of military sites to reduce reliance on hotels, while officials are looking at other non-military facilities as well. Mahmood, who was previously justice secretary, replaced Yvette Cooper in the prime minister’s weekend reshuffle.

 Her appointment comes at a time when Labour is under pressure to demonstrate credibility on immigration. While critics question whether suspending visas would harm broader diplomatic relations, supporters argue it would strengthen Britain’s hand.

The debate is likely to intensify as small boat arrivals continue to rise and as Labour seeks to show it can deliver on promises to secure the country’s borders.