By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
In a move that could reshape the UK’s immigration landscape, Kemi Badenoch, Business and Trade Secretary, announced the Conservative Party’s commitment to a tougher stance on immigration. Speaking in a viral TikTok video, Badenoch declared: “Britain is a home, not a hotel. It’s time to get tougher on immigration.”
The statement is part of the Conservatives’ push for a new deportation bill, set to be introduced next year, aimed at significantly increasing the removal of foreign nationals who commit crimes in the UK. The bill is expected to fast-track deportations, strengthen visa rules, and limit legal challenges for those facing removal.
Badenoch emphasized that the new law would make it clear: “If you come here and break our laws, you will be sent home.” Under the proposed legislation, foreign criminals will have fewer opportunities to appeal deportation decisions, and the government will gain more power to act against those overstaying their visas or exploiting the system.
“We want to maintain a welcoming country for those who contribute positively,” Badenoch said. “But if you abuse our hospitality by committing crimes, your stay here will be over.”
The Conservative Party is calling on the Labour Party to support the bill, framing it as a critical issue for national security and public confidence in the immigration system.
The move is also an attempt to address growing concerns over border control and immigration numbers, especially ahead of the upcoming general election.
Opposition parties, including Labour, have not yet given a definitive stance but have previously criticized the government’s approach to immigration, citing inefficiencies in managing asylum claims and border control.
Critics of the proposed bill, including human rights organizations, argue that it could lead to the wrongful deportation of individuals with long-standing ties to the UK or those who have been in the country for years, contributing positively to society.
As the UK’s immigration debate intensifies, the Conservative Party is betting that a hardline approach will resonate with voters who feel immigration policies have been too lenient
