Question to the Home Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government why they are reducing the move-on period for newly recognised refugees to 28 days for most childless adults of working age before the pilot of a 56-day move-on period concludes in December; how this will affect the evaluation of that pilot; and whether they still intend to publish the findings of that evaluation.

On 1 September, the 56 day move on pilot implemented in December 2024 was paused for all single adults in receipt of a positive asylum decision, with the exception of individuals who are pregnant, over the age of 65 or have a known/evidenced disability. This action was taken to ensure that the asylum system continues to run efficiently, and to enable us to continue taking action both to reduce the overall number of asylum hotels in different communities, and the number of people staying in them.

This pause applies to all decisions made from 1 September, anyone in receipt of a positive decision made prior to the 1st September will receive a 56-day move on period as per the pilot.

We closely monitor the impact of all our policies, including the move on period, on the number and occupancy of asylum hotels, the overall costs of the asylum accommodation estate, the wider effect on local communities, and any pressures placed on local authorities and public amenities. We remain committed to working closely with our partners to identify improvements and make efficiencies in supporting newly recognised refugees move on from asylum accommodation.

The independent evaluation of the pilot continues and is due to conclude imminently. Evaluation outcomes will be used to inform longer term policy proposals and will be shared with parliament.