Channel Crossings in Small Boats Debate

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Department: Home Office

Channel Crossings in Small Boats

Jonathan Gullis Excerpts
Monday 22nd November 2021

(2 years, 4 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Priti Patel Portrait Priti Patel
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We have been very clear that we will table an amendment on Report on the specific point that the hon. Gentleman has made. What I would also say about the Bill—[Interruption.]if he lets me finish. Of course, the importance of the Bill is that it will not just bring about long-term reform but make life harder for the criminal gangs behind these crossings. That is something that should unite us all, and we absolutely want to make sure that happens.

Jonathan Gullis Portrait Jonathan Gullis (Stoke-on-Trent North) (Con)
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Let me start with a quote:

“When a person leaves their country through fear, we consider that, as a general principle, such a person should seek protection in the first safe country where they have the chance to do so.”—[Official Report, House of Lords, 5 April 2004; Vol. 459, c. 1684.]

I agree with that quote, and the people of Stoke-on-Trent North, Kidsgrove and Talke agree with that quote. It is a quote of the Labour Minister, Baroness Scotland, in 2004—when Labour used to win elections. Does my right hon. Friend agree with that quote, and will she tell that lot over there to vote for the Nationality and Borders Bill?