Priti Patel

The UK government confirmed in the Queen’s Speech today that it intends to bring legislation to “establish a fairer immigration system that strengthens the United Kingdom’s borders and deters criminals who facilitate dangerous and illegal journeys”.

However, the Law Society said the so-called New Plan for Immigration “amounts to a denial of access to justice as it would significantly restrict a refugee’s right to legal protection”.

In a statement, the Law Society said: “By distinguishing between refugees by reference to their route of entry into the United Kingdom the proposals are fundamentally out of step with the 1951 Refugee Convention.

“These proposals will have a disproportionate impact on the most vulnerable at a time in their lives when they deserve fair treatment and support.”