We the undersigned strongly oppose Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s plans to abolish refugee status, replace it with ‘temporary’ protection status and introduce a series of other shocking and draconian policies. They would put up new barriers to refugees integrating in the UK and create insecurity and division.
No British government in the history of refugee protection after World War II has ever proposed such a comprehensive attack on the system.
A large majority of the public support the principle that those fleeing war and persecution should be eligible for refugee protection. If the UK Government instead tampers with the principle of permanent safety, this will add a dangerous precedent with implications for refugee status globally.
We urge the government to reflect the values of decency and humanity of the “silent majority”. It should reiterate its commitment to the 1951 Refugee Convention, and establish safe and legal routes to end irregular cross-channel crossings.
17th November 2025