Government set to prohibit taxi use by asylum seekers
In a significant policy shift, the UK government has announced plans to prohibit asylum seekers from utilizing taxis for medical appointments. This decision follows a BBC investigation highlighting excessive taxi costs incurred for transporting asylum seekers, with one reported case involving a £600 taxi journey covering 250 miles to a general practitioner.
Government Review and New Regulations
The government initiated an urgent review in September concerning the transportation costs for asylum seekers after revelations surfaced about the extensive use of taxis. Reports indicate that the government has been spending approximately £15.8 million annually on transportation for asylum seekers across the country.
Taxis vs. Public Transport
- Asylum seekers were previously issued bus passes for one round trip per week.
- Taxis were primarily used for essential travel, such as medical appointments.
- The new policy restricts taxi use to exceptional circumstances only.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated that the era of unrestricted taxi use for asylum seekers is coming to an end. Instead, the government aims to encourage the use of public transport and is committed to discovering wasteful practices associated with asylum accommodation.
Concerns Raised by Drivers
Taxis drivers have voiced concerns regarding the misuse of transportation services. One driver reported completing up to 15 daily drop-offs from a hotel to a nearby doctor’s office, costing the government upwards of £1,000 each day. Another driver described situations where unnecessary long trips were made, thus increasing costs.
Long-Standing Issues within the Asylum System
Enver Solomon, Chief Executive at the Refugee Council, noted that current taxi practices reflect deeper issues in the asylum system, suggesting that private contractors have gained excessive profits at taxpayers’ expense. He emphasized that these problems stem from poor contract management rather than exploitation by asylum seekers.
Mahmood acknowledged the inherited issues from previous administrations, stating the government aims to close all taxpayer-funded asylum hotels by the next election. Presently, 36,273 asylum seekers reside in these hotels, a noticeable increase since June.
A Call for Systemic Changes
In addition to phasing out hotels, the government is looking to utilize alternative accommodations, such as military sites. Significant reforms to the asylum system are also on the table, including making refugee status temporary and modifying housing support for asylum seekers.
As political debates intensify, Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp criticized the Labour Party for inadequately addressing illegal immigration and soaring costs. As the government explores strategies to manage immigration and transportation issues, the outcome remains closely watched by all stakeholders involved.
