Revealed: Tony Blair-era Files Detail Controversial Migration Proposals

LONDON: Newly released 2003 files reveal that, during Tony Blair’s premiership, proposals for a detention camp on the Isle of Mull and potential violations of international law were considered to address migration issues, reported BBC.

Frustrated by rising asylum applications, Blair sought radical measures. Suggestions included incompatible legislation with the European Convention on Human Rights, detaining individuals in camps (similar to Australia’s approach), and establishing “safe havens” in third countries for rejected asylum seekers.

While Blair’s administration did not enact these controversial measures, parallels with current government policies, such as offshore processing, are noted. The files also expose concerns about prostitution tolerance zones and tensions with the BBC over Iraq War coverage.