The British government has announced significant changes to immigration laws, aimed at accelerating the deportation process for foreign convicts and preventing them from exploiting the appeals system to delay their departure.

A key modification involves expanding the pre-appeal deportation program, nearly tripling the number of countries involved to a total of 23.

Under this scheme, convicted individuals will be sent back to their home countries where they can lodge appeals via video link.

Justice Minister Shabana Mahmood has also expressed intentions to amend legislation, enabling the deportation of most foreign criminals immediately after conviction.

According to Mahmood, foreign offenders comprise approximately 12% of Britain's prison population. The government hopes this initiative will save substantial funds and ease overcrowded prison conditions.

Political Motives and Challenges

These measures come amid mounting domestic pressure on Keir Starmer's Labour government, particularly as its popularity wanes and support for Nigel Farage's right-wing Reform Party grows. This party focuses heavily on immigration and crime issues in its campaign.

In response, Starmer’s administration has introduced similar measures to counteract the rising popularity of the Reform Party.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated these actions will enhance "the UK's ability to deport foreign criminals at the earliest opportunity," emphasizing that the government won't allow such individuals "to manipulate the system."

Targeted Nations and Previous Statistics

The revised list includes 15 additional countries now subject to the 'deport now, appeal later' policy. Among these are European nations like Latvia and Bulgaria; African countries such as Angola, Botswana, Kenya, Uganda, Zambia; Western allies including Australia and Canada; as well as India, Indonesia, Lebanon, and Malaysia.

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The Home Office noted that Britain had deported 5,200 convicted foreign passport holders since July 2024-an increase of 14% compared to last year.