Immigration Backlog as Home Office and MoJ Dispute Tribunal Costs

A backlog of immigration cases is building up in the UK as the Home Office and Ministry of Justice dispute over who should pay for tribunals.

According to lawyers representing appellants, the number of hearings at immigration and asylum tribunal centres across the UK has nearly halved as a result of money-saving measures, with emergency sittings being organised to tackle the build up. Describing the situation as chaotic, lawyers allege the cutback is due to differing opinions on who should pay between the Home Office and Ministry of Justice.

A spokesperson for an HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) said:

"Immigration and asylum appeals are currently being heard within eight months on average. Significant delays only arise when cases are very complicated. To maintain current performance levels we are putting in additional sitting days for judges from next month.

"It is nonsense to suggest we are in dispute with the Home Office and we continue to work closely with them on reforms to the immigration system."

Both the Home Office and the Ministry of Justice referred questions to HMCTS and declined to respond directly.

If you need assistance with a visa application or British citizenship, contact our immigration solicitors on 0161 492 0300 for advice.

Crumpsall Solicitors

Immigration Solicitors