Labour proposes new Border Security Bill amid criticism of UK immigration policies.

The new Labour government has announced plans for a Border Security Bill, aiming to "modernise the asylum and immigration system" and enhance counter-terrorism powers. This comes as a recent report by the Migrants' Rights Network highlights concerns about systemic racism in UK immigration legislation.

The report argues that British immigration policies have historically targeted and excluded migrants from former colonies, particularly people of color. It traces this trend from the 1948 British Nationality Act through to recent legislation like the 'Illegal' Migration Bill 2023 and Nationality and Borders Act 2022.

Key findings from the report include:

• 85% of those deprived of citizenship between 2002 and 2022 had ties to countries in Africa, South Asia, or West Asia.
• 83% of these individuals were from former British colonies, with 41% being of Pakistani or Bangladeshi origin.
• The "good character" test for citizenship applications is criticized for potentially invoking racist ideals and associating certain migrant groups with criminality.

The report also examines how visa schemes and the points-based immigration system may perpetuate what it terms "racial commodification," potentially creating an insecure class of migrant workers.

Critics argue that Labour's proposed bill continues a punitive approach to border control rather than expanding safe routes for asylum seekers. The government defends the measure as necessary to tackle organized immigration crime and enhance border security.

This development occurs against the backdrop of ongoing debates about the fairness and impact of UK immigration policies, particularly on racially diverse communities and those from former British colonies.