Today’s Home Office related stories include coverage of BBC Panorama's investigation into Brook House immigration removal centre, an update on the case of Brian White and changes to legislation that will allow domestic abuse victims to register to vote anonymously so they do not appear on the electoral register.
Brook House immigration removal centre
BBC Online, Mail Online, International Business Times and the Independent carry stories following last night's BBC Panorama report concerning alleged misconduct at Brook House immigration removal centre.
The Immigration Minister’s response to the Panorama investigation can be found below.
Immigration Minister Brandon Lewis said:
The footage obtained by Panorama, shown in full for the first time last night, is extremely disturbing. The sort of behaviour on display is utterly unacceptable. It is right that G4S took swift action as soon as the allegations were brought to their attention and we will continue to work with them and the police to ensure all necessary action is taken.
Case of Brian White
There has been further reporting of the immigration case of prospective Oxford University student Brian White in the Times, Daily Telegraph, Guardian, Daily Mail and Metro.
The papers report that Mr White has been granted Indefinite Leave to Remain by the Home Office.
Below is a Home Office statement on the case.
A Home Office spokesperson said:
We have been in contact with Mr White’s legal representatives today (4 September) to confirm that his application for Indefinite Leave to Remain has been approved.
Anonymous voting
The Independent carries an article on changes to legislation that will allow domestic abuse victims to register to vote anonymously so they do not appear on the electoral register. This would allow survivors to withhold details that could lead to perpetrators finding out where they are.
The coverage notes how the Government's plan has been welcomed by charities and organisations, including Women's Aid, whose chief executive Katie Ghose, who said it would allow victims to "regain their voices".
Click here for more information on the government's plan, while a comment from the Minister for Crime, Safeguarding and Vulnerability can be found below.
Minister for for Crime, Safeguarding and Vulnerability Sarah Newton said:
Domestic abuse has a devastating and often lifelong impact on victims, their children, family and friends.
These changes come at a time when the government is bringing forward a landmark Domestic Violence and Abuse Bill which will protect and support victims, recognise the devastating impact domestic abuse can have on young people, and ensure agencies respond effectively.
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