Slow and overpaid? MPs take on the UK Border Agency

Tuesday, 11 January 2011 12:01 AM

By politics.co.uk staff

The UK Border Agency (UKBA) has been subject to another scathing attack from MPs.

The Commons' home affairs committee found that UKBA was letting down both the public and its users, particularly in failing to clear the backlog of asylum applications.

"Much of the delay in concluding asylum and other immigration cases stems from poor quality decision-making when the application is initially considered," said chair Keith Vaz.

"More consistent and rigorous scrutiny of applications would lead to fewer delays, fewer appeals, less uncertainty for the applicant, less pressure on the officials themselves, and probably lower costs for the UK taxpayer."

In a carefully worded attack on the leadership of the agency, Mr Vaz added: "It is also likely to require more consistent and considered direction from those setting policy for the Agency than has sometimes been the case."

Concerns were also raised about the salaries being paid at the top of the agency.

The outgoing head of UKBA is paid more than the new permanent secretary at the Home Office - Dame Helen Ghosh.

"In the current climate we believe it is inappropriate for senior Home Office officials to receive any bonuses," Mr Vaz said.

"We also believe that the new head of the UK Border Agency should not receive a salary greater than either the permanent secretary of the Home Office or the prime minister."

The committee also raised concerns about the "training and supervision" of those employed to conduct forced removals of unsuccessful asylum applicants. Several recent cases have seen allegations of mistreatment and violence in the deportations.

Tags: