The Home Office has released data on irregular migration and asylum applications in the UK. In the year ending June 2024, there were 38,784 irregular arrivals, 26% fewer than the previous year, with 81% arriving by small boats. Additionally, 118,882 people were waiting for asylum decisions in June 2024, down 32% from the previous year, with 76,268 waiting more than six months. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper plans to reopen immigration centers to increase removal rates. In other news, child benefit claims rose, GCSE grades remained consistent, and political party memberships declined.
Firms in the oil and gas supply chain have expressed concern over government plans to increase windfall taxes, warning it could impact investments in renewable energy. Unions are pushing for pay restoration for public sector workers who have suffered real-term salary cuts. This could fuel attacks on Labour from the Conservatives. The government has offered a 22% pay deal to junior doctors amid ongoing disputes.
Data on asylum applications and leave to remain decisions show an increase in people granted refugee status or leave to remain, with a majority of initial decisions being grants of refugee status. Nearly all people arriving by small boats across the English Channel claimed asylum. Additionally, there has been a decrease in visas granted to financially dependent relatives and partners of overseas students coming to study in the UK.
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