16 November 2006

Firm but fair: Hodge Hill MP to tackle immigration abuse

Liam Byrne MP is working on a Border and Immigration Bill to be brought before parliament in its new session. The news was announced in the Queen’s Speech in the House of Lords on Wednesday.

Although full details of the bill have not yet been announced, the Hodge Hill MP has said that it will include tougher measures to police Britain’s borders, tackle immigration crime and protect the public.

Liam said:

“I am committed to an immigration service that is firm, fair and effective. We will introduce new measures to send a clear signal to those living in this country and overseas that the UK will not tolerate abuse of its immigration system.

“From talking to people in Hodge Hill, I know immigration is a concern. Local residents want action. For example, 92% of people surveyed in Hodge Hill said it is right to penalise employers who employ illegal immigrants and this will be one of the measures I will present to parliament. Only a Labour government will deal with the twenty-first century challenges of immigration – neither the Liberal Democrats or the Tories supported ID cards which will be a key tool in managing migration.”

The Queen’s Speech set out the Government’s agenda for the next year and demonstrated a commitment to the security of all in Britain both now and in the future. As well as tackling immigration, it also included plans for legislation on pensions, climate change and developing a criminal justice system centred on the interests of the victim.

Liam added:

“We have ambitious plans to safeguard everyone’s futures, to raise aspiration and to help people to achieve the very best they can. I am looking forward to doing my bit in parliament and seeing the results in Hodge Hill soon and for years to come.”