Member

However, where co-operation with countries falls below the level expected, and where appropriate, we will use all the levers available to us, which will include visa penalties. The existing provisions in the Nationality and Borders Act 2022 already give the Home Secretary sufficient scope to impose visa penalties if deemed appropriate, including, in theory, in the sort of situations that the noble Baroness, Lady Maclean, talked about. The previous Government introduced these powers but exercised their discretion not to use them. This Government intend to retain that discretion to use the powers, and having that discretion is essential to making these powers effective. We will use them in the right way at the right time, and when it can be the most effective way of unlocking returns co-operation, which I have already stressed.