Overview

This bill amends the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 and the Asylum Support Regulations 2000 to increase the minimum period between an asylum claim decision and the termination of asylum support. It ensures a 56-day notice period before support ends, improving the process for asylum seekers.

Description

The bill makes two key changes:

• Extended Notice Period: It increases the minimum timeframe between the asylum claim determination and the cessation of asylum support from 28 to 56 days. This prevents immediate termination of support, giving asylum seekers more time to adjust. The Secretary of State can prescribe a longer period, but not shorter than 56 days in specific circumstances defined in regulation 2(2A) of the Asylum Support Regulations 2000.
• Improved Notification: The bill mandates that the notification of termination of asylum support must include the exact date when support will end. This ensures clarity and transparency for those affected.

The bill also clarifies the notice period required before terminating asylum support, ensuring it aligns with the extended minimum period.

Government Spending

The bill is likely to increase government spending on asylum support in the short-term due to the extended 56-day period before support ends. However, precise figures are unavailable in the provided text.

Groups Affected

This bill primarily affects:

• Asylum seekers: The bill provides them with a longer period of support after their asylum claim is decided, reducing the risk of immediate homelessness or destitution.
• Government agencies: Increased administrative work is expected due to changes in notification procedures and managing the extended support period.
• Charities and support organizations: These groups may see an increase in demand for their services in the short term, depending on how the extension is managed.

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