UK moves to speed up asylum appeal decisions in 24 weeks

The United Kingdom has introduced a 24-week target for deciding asylum and immigration appeals, according to a report by Punch Newspapers. The policy, which took effect on August 12, targets non-detained foreign national offenders and asylum seekers receiving state support, replacing an average 67-week wait.

UK Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Anna Turley, said the reform would cut costs and speed up removals of persons with no right to remain. The move accompanies plans for an Independent Immigration Appeals Authority and follows the closure of dozens of asylum hotels nationwide, saving an estimated £6.9 billion.