Summary
The UK's asylum appeal backlog has reached a new high, with over 80,000 cases waiting to be heard by the end of 2025. This backlog has nearly doubled in size from the previous year, leading to longer wait times for decisions. The rise happens during Labour's first year in government, challenging their commitment to address the asylum process.
Key Facts
- There are 80,333 asylum appeals waiting to be heard in the UK.
- This number nearly doubled from 41,987 the previous year.
- The average waiting time for an asylum decision is now 63 weeks.
- Labour's government promised to improve the asylum system but is facing challenges.
- Around 30,657 asylum seekers live in hotels while waiting for decisions.
- The Refugee Council estimates the appeals involve over 100,000 people, considering family members.
- 100,625 people applied for asylum in the year up to December.
- Of these applicants, 41% arrived in the UK by small boats.
