UK toughens asylum rules to discourage migration

Refugee status review every 30 months for adults, their children

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The United Kingdom's overhaul of its asylum programme took effect yesterday, the Home Office announced, with the new rules drastically cutting protections for refugees and their children.

Under the reforms, refugee status for adults and their accompanying children will be reviewed every 30 months.

"Refugee status will become temporary and subject to review," the Home Office said in a statement released late Sunday. The changes took take effect yesterday.

After 30 months, "refugees with a continuing need of sanctuary will have their protection renewed, while those whose countries are now deemed safe will be expected to return home".

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