L

Lord Blunkett (Lab)

Speaking in the House of Lords on 12 February 2025

Debate

Citizenship Applications

Contribution

I am grateful to my noble friend for that nuanced Answer. I assure him of my absolute support for the actions of this Government in tackling people smugglers and organised criminal gangs and the securing of our borders. However, he may remember that I was responsible for the reshaping of, preparation for and granting of citizenship back in 2003—the tests, the ceremonies and the expected commitment to our country and our values. Will he ask the Home Secretary to reflect on the societal and cohesion aspects of this policy, the impact on children and their right to UK citizenship, and the statelessness that would arise for individuals if their birth country refused to renew or retain their nationality? Surely this Parliament should have a say in such a big change.

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