Destitution will therefore be used as a means of immigration control in an attempt to “rebalance the support system so that it does not incentivise failed asylum seekers and other illegal migrants to remain in the UK where they have no lawful basis for doing so”. Only those who have a “genuine obstacle” preventing their return to countries of origin will be entitled to access benefits, although even they will receive welfare at a level much lower than that available to citizens.

Estimates suggest that the proposals will impact around 2,900 families and a further 4,900 persons whose family status is unknown. On paper, the policy will save the government an estimated £73 million per year, with savings to the taxpayer being used as the main justification for forcing destitution upon refused asylum-seeking families.

Read more: Katie Bales, Open Democracy, 09/12/2015