In a bid to address the ongoing issue of asylum claims and irregular migration, the Labour Party is reportedly considering the possibility of processing some asylum claims outside of the UK if it forms the next government. The party's leader, Sir Keir Starmer, has expressed openness to exploring new plans for Labour's asylum policy.

When asked about the possibility of processing asylum claims overseas, Sir Keir stated that he is willing to consider any plan that proves effective in addressing the issue. However, he also emphasized that Labour's priority lies in tackling criminal gangs and preventing people from reaching the UK in the first place, rather than solely focusing on processing claims.

Meanwhile, the Conservative Party has accused Labour of lacking a credible plan to deter migrants from coming to the UK by boat. The discussion on processing asylum claims overseas is seen as part of a wider range of measures being considered by Labour to discourage irregular migration across the English Channel.

Senior sources within Labour have confirmed that shadow ministers and officials have been engaging in discussions regarding this potential policy shift, which aims to dissuade asylum seekers from making the perilous journey across the Channel. However, no detailed plans have been finalized at this stage, contrary to reports in The Times suggesting otherwise.

Labour has made it clear that they are against any scheme that involves the deportation of asylum seekers to other countries while their claims are being assessed. This stance directly opposes the Rishi Sunak-led Rwanda scheme, which aims to send some asylum seekers to Rwanda for processing.

The government proposed the five-year trial of the Rwanda scheme in April 2022. Under this plan, asylum seekers arriving in the UK could be sent to Rwanda for processing, where they have the possibility of being granted refugee status and allowed to stay. Alternatively, they could choose to apply for settlement in Rwanda on other grounds or seek asylum in another "safe third country." However, the government has faced legal challenges that have prevented the implementation of the Rwanda scheme thus far.

The future of the proposed legislation is uncertain, as further parliamentary votes are scheduled for the coming year, which could pose a challenge for Rishi Sunak and the Conservative government.

The Labour Party remains committed to exploring measures that effectively tackle the issue of irregular migration. While processing asylum claims overseas is being considered, Labour's focus remains on cracking down on criminal networks and preventing people from reaching the UK illegally. The party seeks to find practical alternatives to the Conservative government's approach, including an expansion of safe routes for refugees.

In other news, the campaign for the next London mayoral election, scheduled for May 2, 2024, has officially begun. Additionally, the Labour leader has voiced his support for MPs to have a free vote on assisted dying and reaffirmed his party's unshakeable commitment to NATO during a visit to Estonia.