Overview

The Refugees (Family Reunion) (No. 2) Bill aims to make it easier for family members of refugees and those granted humanitarian protection in the UK to join them. The bill mandates the government to create new rules enabling family reunification and provides for legal aid in these cases.

Description

This Bill requires the Secretary of State to create new immigration rules within six months of its passing. These rules will govern the admission of family members to the UK to join refugees and individuals with humanitarian protection.

Who is considered a family member?

The definition of "family member" is broad and includes parents (including adoptive), spouses/civil partners/unmarried partners, children (under 18 or under 25 if unmarried or under 18 when the refugee left their home country), and siblings (under 18 or under 25 if unmarried or under 18 when the refugee left their home country). The Secretary of State can also include other individuals based on factors like family unity, the best interests of a child, or dependency.

Legal Aid

The Bill amends the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 to include legal aid for family reunion applications under the new rules.

Extent and Commencement

Sections 1 and 3 of the Bill apply to the entire UK. Section 2 (regarding legal aid) applies only to England and Wales. Sections 1 and 3 come into force immediately upon passage; Section 2 comes into force two months after passage.

Government Spending

The bill will likely increase government spending due to the provision of legal aid and the potential increase in the number of people granted leave to enter or remain in the UK. Exact figures are not specified in the provided text.

Groups Affected

Groups affected include:

• Refugees and those granted humanitarian protection: They will potentially benefit from easier reunification with their families.
• Family members of refugees and those granted humanitarian protection: They will have a greater chance of joining their loved ones in the UK.
• Legal aid providers: They will experience increased demand for their services.
• UK government: The government will face increased administrative costs and potential strain on public services.

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