Lords launch new inquiry into UK-EU asylum cooperation after Brexit

The Committee has previously taken evidence on this topic, and wrote to the Immigration Minister about the Government's objectives for the framework of future UK-EU asylum cooperation and its plans to protect people with pending asylum claims in a ‘no deal' Brexit scenario.

This inquiry provides an opportunity for a more in-depth examination of options for future UK-EU asylum cooperation. The Committee will consider what form this relationship might take, with particular reference to:

• the Dublin system
• standards of protection and assistance for asylum seekers
• the Immigration Liaison Officer network
• readmission agreements with third countries
• the Asylum and Migration Fund

The Committee is seeking evidence from a broad range of stakeholders on questions including:

• How successful has CEAS been, in particular the Dublin system? Has it achieved its aims of bringing more harmonisation to standards of protection by further aligning the EU States' asylum legislation; effective and well-supported practical cooperation; increased solidarity and sense of responsibility among EU States, and between the EU and non-EU countries?
• What form should future UK-EU asylum cooperation take? What will be the key factors which determine the nature and extent of this relationship? 
• How useful are existing models of asylum cooperation between the EU and third countries, such as Norway? 
• What is your view on the extent to which rights of asylum seekers in the UK will be upheld and protected after Brexit?
• What role has the UK played in providing global leadership and support in tackling key migration challenges?
• How does the UK cooperate with other countries on asylum matters through bilateral and (non-EU) international channels? Should this cooperation be enhanced after Brexit?

Written evidence can be submitted online here. The deadline is Friday 24th May.