Labour MPs urge Starmer to amend ECHR laws

Labour MPs are pushing Prime Minister Keir Starmer to make changes to human rights laws that prevent the deportation of failed asylum seekers and foreign criminals. They want him to alter how the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) is applied in UK courts to regain "control" over the nation's borders. The pressure comes as Home Secretary Yvette Cooper reviews the rules following controversial immigration tribunal rulings. Some of these decisions were influenced by Article 8 of the ECHR, which protects family life. In one notable case, an Albanian criminal was allowed to remain in the UK because his son preferred local chicken nuggets. MPs are concerned that judges are interpreting the ECHR in ways that block deportations. Red Wall MPs are advocating for the government to limit how Article 8 can be used in courts. Jonathan Brash, the MP for Hartlepool, emphasized that the asylum system is dysfunctional and the public wants the government to have control over asylum policy. While Brash does not support leaving the ECHR, he believes it is reasonable to tighten its interpretation. There is a growing movement among Labour members to revisit the application of the ECHR in asylum cases. Some MPs plan to attend a briefing by a barrister on this matter. Connor Naismith, MP for Crewe and Nantwich, mentioned that recent rulings have eroded public trust in politicians. He highlighted the need for the government to effectively address issues related to immigration. Jonathan Hinder, another MP, supported the review of human rights rules, stating that voters expect their elected officials to act on migration concerns. The debate comes after former Labour Home Secretary Jack Straw suggested that Starmer should reconsider the ECHR's relevance.