More foreign criminals to be deported under expanded scheme

The UK government has expanded its "deport now, appeal later" policy, adding 15 more countries to the list. This policy allows the Home Office to remove foreign criminals from the UK before their appeals are heard. The scheme, which was introduced in 2020, now covers a total of 35 countries, including Albania, Jamaica, and Serbia. The government claims the policy will help speed up the deportation process and reduce the burden on the UK's immigration system. However, critics argue that the policy denies individuals the right to a fair hearing and could lead to wrongful deportations. They also raise concerns about the impact on vulnerable individuals, such as those who have been victims of trafficking or domestic abuse. The Home Office maintains that the policy is necessary to protect the public and ensure the swift removal of foreign nationals who have committed crimes in the UK. The expanded scheme is part of the government's broader efforts to tackle foreign national offenders and strengthen immigration enforcement.