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UK threatens visa bans for Eritrea over migrant return policy

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www.bbc.co.uk

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A group of migrants are seen in the distance on an inflatable boat in the Channel. In the foreground are four people in the sea wearing life jackets.

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UK threatens visa bans for Eritrea over migrant return policy

Overview

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has threatened to ban all Eritreans from entering the UK if the Eritrean government fails to accept the return of small boat migrants and foreign national offenders. Initial restrictions on Eritrean diplomats and VIP fast-track visas are set to be introduced, following Eritrea's refusal to cooperate with UK return policies.

Key points

  • Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has threatened a total entry ban for Eritreans if Eritrea does not accept more returns of small boat migrants and foreign national offenders.
  • From Thursday, Eritrean diplomats will face movement restrictions outside London and fast-track visas for VIPs will be halted.
  • Eritreans accounted for 18% of small boat arrivals in the 12 months leading up to June, making them the most common nationality.
  • The UK government stated that Eritrea abruptly withdrew cooperation earlier this year and refused to accept the return of criminals and individuals with no right to be in the UK.
  • Similar visa penalties have previously been used or threatened against Angola, Namibia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to encourage cooperation on returns.
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