Uk In Talks With Several Countries To Set Up ‘Return Hubs’ For Asylum Seekers

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Thursday that the United Kingdom is talking to several countries to set up “return hubs” for failed asylum seekers waiting for deportation.

He announced during a news conference with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama on his first official visit to the country.

“We are in talks with several countries about return hubs. I see them as a really important innovation,” Starmer said.

He later posted on social media: “Working together with Albania, we will deter, detect, and return illegal migrants. By tackling illegal migration overseas and smashing the gangs at source, we’re making our streets safer and easing pressure on public services. That’s my Plan for Change in action.”

Starmer’s office said both leaders will increase cooperation. They aim to stop people smuggling, help trafficking victims, and stop deported Albanians from returning illegally.

“Global challenges need shared solutions,” Starmer said. “Our joint work to deter, detect, and return illegal migrants shows that stopping threats early works. It protects British shores and secures our borders.”

He added that strong partnerships matter. “Each step we take to stop illegal migration, crush criminal networks, and block their money helps us. It makes UK streets safer and eases the strain on public services.”

Earlier this week, Starmer warned that the UK could become an “island of strangers” without stronger immigration controls.

He remarked while unveiling the Immigration White Paper. He also announced that the minimum stay for permanent settlement will increase from five to ten years.

“In a diverse nation like ours—and I celebrate that—these rules matter more,” Starmer said. “Without them, we risk becoming an island of strangers, not a united nation.”

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