(The Secretary of State for the
Home Department): I am today publishing a
consultation paper on the design of a compensation scheme that
will help to right the wrongs suffered by those of the Windrush
generation who have faced difficulties and suffered losses as a
result of measures that are in place to tackle illegal
immigration [Cm 9654].
I have been very clear both that the Government deeply regrets
what has happened to some of the Windrush generation and that we
are determined to put it right. A series of measures are in place
to help achieve this. We are supporting those affected directly
to gain confirmation of their immigration status. The Windrush
taskforce, established in April, has provided documentation to
over 2,000 people to demonstrate their right to live in the UK.
We are conducting a Lessons Learned review, with independent
oversight and challenge, to look at what happened and what the HO
can do to ensure that it acts differently in future. Today I am
also fulfilling the commitment to publish the terms of reference
and methodology for that Review by summer recess and a copy of
each will be placed in the House Library. The review aims to
complete its findings by the end of March 2019 and I can confirm
that the findings from the review will be published.
We also committed to establish a compensation scheme for those
who have suffered loss as a result of these difficulties. On 10
May I launched a Call for Evidence, to help us understand what
went wrong, when and the effects it has had on people’s lives.
That closed on 8 June and we received over 650 responses. I have
been moved by the stories people have told. There has been
genuine suffering, which should never have happened. I am also
inspired by the way many of the respondents moved half way round
the world to help rebuild the UK, and established their homes and
lives here. It is also clear from these stories that these are
strong communities which support each other and contribute
significantly to the life and prosperity of the UK.
I want to move quickly, but carefully, from this initial Call for
Evidence to the next stage. Based on the Call for Evidence and
the independent advice we are receiving from Martin Forde QC, we
have designed a consultation exercise to help us build and set up
a compensation scheme. We are suggesting the scheme should be
open to anyone who would be eligible for assistance of any type
under the existing Windrush Scheme being operated by the
taskforce, and we are consulting on the types of losses and
impacts that we should compensate for.
We received representations to extend the initial Call for
Evidence and therefore I am keen to ensure that the consultation
exercise is thorough and allows sufficient opportunity for
everyone who wants to respond, to do so. The consultation will
last 12 weeks, closing on 11 October 2018. We are encouraging
responses from a wide range of people, but particularly the
communities affected. I am working with the Caribbean High
Commissioners to ensure the consultation reaches the right people
abroad. The consultation document will be accessible online and
offline. My officials will promote the consultation using
appropriate media channels including social media. Throughout the
consultation period we will engage with key stakeholders and
community organisations to encourage responses, providing copies
of the document and guidance for it to be completed, along with
the offer of dedicated events with Home Office staff within
community groups to facilitate responses. The independent advisor
to the scheme, Martin Forde QC, will be talking directly to
individuals affected and their representatives, as well as
community leaders.
Following the consultation my priority will be to establish a
scheme which will pay appropriate compensation as soon as
possible. In the meantime, we will continue to offer people
direct support to establish their immigration status.
