Deportation Flights

It is critically important that all those in our country - British citizens of foreign nationals - are treated fairly and humanely. Equally, it is very important to distinguish between Windrush victims and those who are due to be deported. The former comprise law-abiding British citizens who were caught up in an appalling Home Office bureaucratic failure for which there has rightly been a profuse apology. The latter comprise foreign nationals convicted of serious crimes. 

I understand that some people are concerned about a planned charter flight to Jamaica in the coming weeks. 

This flight will remove exclusively foreign national offenders. These are not British citizens and importantly do not qualify for citizenship or support under the Windrush compensation and documentation schemes. Indeed, each person in scope for this flight had their case checked by the Windrush Taskforce. 

It is also important to note that the Home Secretary is required by the UK Borders Act 2007 (introduced by a Labour Government) to deport any foreign national who has received a custodial sentence of at least 12 months and those convicted of serious crimes, are persistent offenders or who represent a threat to national security, unless a specified exception applies. 

Having looked into this matter, I am advised that the offences committed by the individuals due to be removed on this flight include murder, attempted murder, rape, child sexual offences, dealing class A drugs and violent crime. 

It is also the case that the UK only deports those whom the Home Office or courts, when a legal claim is raised, are satisfied do not need protection and have no legal basis to remain in the UK. I welcome the fact that every individual who meets the threshold for deportation is given access to legal advice and support and importantly has an opportunity to challenge their removal through the legal system. 

All individuals due to be on a return flight will be assessed by a healthcare professional before they leave the immigration removal centre. This will include a temperature check. A second temperature check will take place before they board the plane and anyone displaying symptoms of COVID-19 will not join the flight. 

The UK is one of the few countries in the world providing support to help people re-integrate upon their return. This includes supporting multiple charities and non-government organisations in Jamaica.