‘We will send you packing’: Government vows to deport foreign criminals immediately after sentencing
The United Kingdom has unveiled a sweeping policy change allowing foreign criminals to be deported immediately after sentencing, marking a significant toughening of its immigration and justice systems. Under the new rules, which take effect in September, offenders will be removed after serving just 30% of their prison terms—down from 50%—with plans to enact legislation for instant deportation post-sentencing. The measure excludes terrorists, murderers, and life-sentenced prisoners, while preserving discretionary powers for cases involving national security threats. “Deportations are up under this government, and with this new law, they will happen earlier than ever before,” declared Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood, emphasizing the government’s “radical action” to prioritize public safety and taxpayer savings.
The move follows the deportation of 5,200 foreign offenders since July 2024, a 14% annual increase, and aims to reduce the 12% foreign-born UK prison population. Complementary measures include returns hubs, a treaty with France to repatriate small boat migrants, and stricter application of human rights laws to streamline removals. The proposed legislation, set for parliamentary debate soon, would apply retroactively to current inmates and future convicts, signaling a hardline stance against criminal non-citizens.