Summary
The UK government set up a secret scheme to help Afghans relocate after a data breach accidentally revealed personal details of nearly 19,000 applicants. So far, 4,500 Afghans have moved to the UK under this scheme, with more expected. The scheme was initially kept secret but is now public following a court decision.
Key Facts
- A UK government data breach leaked details of nearly 19,000 Afghan relocation applicants.
- The Ministry of Defence learned about the leak in August 2023 after some information appeared on Facebook.
- In response, a secret relocation plan was created, moving 4,500 Afghans to the UK, with more arrivals planned.
- The scheme, costing £400 million so far, may need another £400m to £450m.
- An injunction initially kept the scheme confidential but was lifted by a court, allowing it to be reported.
- The data breach was due to a spreadsheet being sent outside government systems.
- The police decided not to investigate the breach.
- The leaked information included names and personal details of people who might be at risk from the Taliban.
