Mahmood promises action against ‘sham lawyers’ abusing asylum system

Home Secretary Vows Legal Action Against ‘Sham Lawyers’ Exploiting Asylum System

Following a BBC investigation, it was found that law firms and advisers are charging high fees to assist migrants in fabricating claims of being gay to remain in the UK. The Home Office has initiated an investigation into individuals named in the BBC report, part of a broader effort triggered by officials observing a surge in fraudulent claims where applicants falsely assert their sexual orientation.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has vowed to hold ‘sham lawyers’ accountable for exploiting the UK’s asylum system, stating they will be subjected to the full legal consequences. She emphasized that those abusing protections for persecution based on gender or sexual orientation are beyond contempt, warning that such fraud would result in asylum claims being rejected, support being cut, and individuals being deported.

“Anyone abusing protections for people fleeing persecution over gender or sexual orientation is beyond contempt. Let me be clear: try to defraud the British people to enter or remain in the UK and your asylum claim will be refused, your support cut off, and you will find yourself on a one-way flight out of Britain.” – Shabana Mahmood

The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has begun immediate follow-ups with all firms under its jurisdiction that were flagged in the BBC’s report. Jonathan Peddie, executive director of investigations, enforcement and litigation at the SRA, stated that if evidence of misconduct is found, legal action will be taken.

Recent asylum data shows that 35% of claims come from individuals whose student, work, or tourist visas have expired, rather than those arriving via irregular routes. Asylum applications in the UK surpassed 100,000 in 2025. Critics argue the system must be reformed, with Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp calling the BBC’s findings “exposes the scam at the heart of many asylum claims” and urging prosecutions for immigration fraud.

Labour MP Jo White, a member of the Commons home affairs select committee, suggested halting study visa issuance to Pakistan, following similar measures for Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar, and Sudan. Liberal Democrat Will Forster condemned the current system as “a shambles the Conservatives left us with,” stressing the need for a fair, controlled, and efficient process.

Reform UK’s Zia Yusuf described the situation as “an outrageous scandal,” accusing the Tories of creating a system with loopholes that allows millions to enter the country through false claims. Meanwhile, Aderonke Apata, founder of the African Rainbow Family charity, was granted asylum in the UK due to her lesbian identity and fear of the death penalty in Nigeria. She expressed dismay at the BBC’s report, saying it undermines the struggles of genuine asylum seekers and LGBTIQ communities.

Several LGBT groups have reported an uptick in individuals appearing at meetings with fabricated stories, including those who take photos and leave before events. Tom Guy, founder of National Student Pride, noted the inconsistency in their claims. Human rights advocate Peter Tatchell, whose foundation focuses on asylum issues, has also highlighted concerns over the system’s integrity.