UK House of Commons set to back controversial migration bill

LONDON (AP) — A sweeping British bill that will dramatically curb migrants' ability to seek asylum in the United Kingdom is due to be approved by lawmakers on Wednesday, despite critics' allegations that it breaks international law.

The government says the Illegal Migration Bill will deter tens of thousands of people from trying to reach the country in small boats across the English Channel each year.

Although opposition lawmakers claim they haven't had enough time to scrutinise it, it's likely to easily clear the House of Commons, where the governing Conservatives have a large majority.

“This government has sought to railroad this deplorable, disgusting bill through the House of Commons,” said Stephen Flynn of the opposition Scottish National Party.

The bill is likely to face strong opposition in Parliament's upper chamber, the House of Lords, though the unelected Lords don't have powers to block it completely.

The legislation bars asylum claims by anyone who reaches the UK by unauthorised means, and compels the government to detain and then deport them “to their home country or a safe third country.”

They would be banned from ever reentering the UK.

Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick said the bill is designed to send the message that “if you enter the United Kingdom illegally, you will not be able to build a life here.”

Critics say the plan is unethical and unworkable.

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