One of the striking aspects of the Covid-19 crisis in the UK has been the apparent rehabilitation of the expert. Experts – whether economists, lawyers, civil servants or academics – were famously maligned during the Brexit debate. But the likes of Chris Whitty, Neil Ferguson and Devi Sridhar have become household names over the past few weeks. The return of the expert is most … [Read more...] about Return of the experts
Home Office ‘target culture’ from Blair to May
The recent scandal over removals targets has focused attention on the so-called ‘target culture’ that is rife in the Home Office.In fact, the organization has been driven by targets since the early years of the Blair administration. A series of ambitious ‘stretch’ targets were rolled out as part of the system of Public Service Agreements as early as 2000.Initially, the … [Read more...] about Home Office ‘target culture’ from Blair to May
Brexit may mean internalised border control
On Wednesday 16 August, the UK Government published its long-awaited Position Paper on Northern Ireland and Ireland, setting out how it hoped to maintain a border-free zone with Ireland once it has left the EU.Section 2 of the paper deals with maintenance of the Common Travel Area – suggesting how the UK and Ireland might sustain free movement and rights of Irish and UK … [Read more...] about Brexit may mean internalised border control
Is it possible to stop the free movement of people?
Immigration is a major concern of British voters. According to IPSOS-Mori, 44% of the population consider immigration to be the most important issue facing Britain today. Other surveys suggest that over three-quarters of UK residents want to see a reduction in immigration.Public apprehensions tend to revolve around the perceived burden of immigrants on public services; the … [Read more...] about Is it possible to stop the free movement of people?