Shabana Mahmood to outline ‘firm but fair’ asylum system that could see some claimants enter job market – UK politics live

The Guardian - World NewsEN 7 min read 100% complete by Tom AmbroseMarch 5, 2026 at 11:38 AM

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long article 7 min

UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is set to announce a new asylum system aiming to be "firm but fair." A key proposal would allow up to 21,000 asylum seekers, who have waited over a year for claim processing, to enter the job market. Simultaneously, the government plans to remove support from claimants who break the law, work illegally, or possess sufficient assets, starting in June. The Refugee Council has expressed concerns this could increase homelessness. These changes come as the Home Office reports approximately 30,600 asylum seekers residing in hotels and 107,000 receiving asylum support across the UK.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Metropolitan Police 40% China 40% Badenoch 40% United States ×240% Iran ×240% Refugee Council 50% London ×250% Joani Reid ×250% United Kingdom 60% David Taylor ×360% Home Office ×270% Shabana Mahmood ×490%

Keywords

asylum system 100% asylum seekers 90% shabana mahmood 80% job market 70% migration 60% home office 60% spying 50% rough sleeping 50% refugee council 50% illegal work 40%

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The Guardian - World News

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