The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), a UK watchdog, has faced significant backlash for recommending that Britain provide more support to migrants and asylum seekers. The commission stated that current measures are insufficient to prevent asylum seekers from falling into poverty and called for greater access to benefits to align with United Nations standards.
The EHRC also criticized the government for discontinuing a program designed to help refugees with job-seeking skills, such as CV writing. These recommendations have ignited a strong reaction, with critics arguing that increased benefits could act as a "pull factor," potentially encouraging more irregular migration, including dangerous small boat crossings.
This debate occurs amidst reports of migrants at a former RAF base in Wethersfield, Essex, having access to amenities like a gymnasium, football pitch, and recreational rooms. The provision of mobile phones with free call allowances to residents at the facility has also drawn criticism, with some describing it as more akin to a "holiday camp."
Political figures have voiced strong opposition to the EHRC's stance. Chris Philp, the Conservative Party's shadow home secretary, branded the EHRC as "out-of-touch" and suggested that such bodies should not have control over government policy. He argued that the commission's focus on migrants overlooks the struggles of British families and that a "soft welfare offering" incentivizes immigration. Philp stated that the Conservative Party advocates for restricting benefits to UK citizens.
Tory MP Neil O'Brien echoed these sentiments, warning that offering more benefits to illegal immigrants creates a "pull factor" and encourages further arrivals. He suggested that many are economic migrants rather than genuine refugees and that an influx of unvetted individuals poses risks to the public.
Alp Mehmet, chairman of Migration Watch UK, described the EHRC's recommendations as having "breathtaking cheek," questioning the commission's demand for taxpayer money for migrants and its reliance on UN pronouncements, which he characterized as detached from reality.
The EHRC's findings were based on 57 assessments of UK and Welsh government actions, evaluating compliance with recommendations from the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. The commission found the UK had taken "inconsistent action" regarding migrant and asylum seeker rights, its lowest ranking. Ministers were also criticized for consulting on extending "no recourse to public funds" rules, which limit access to benefits for many migrants, even those granted indefinite leave to remain in the UK.
Dr. Mary-Ann Stephenson, chair of the EHRC, stated that implementing the UN's recommendations could improve how individuals settle and contribute to the UK, thereby accelerating integration and enhancing social cohesion. She urged the UK government to fully implement the outstanding recommendations for promoting economic, cultural, and social rights.