Minister suggests Shabana Mahmood will use visa threats to deport Rochdale grooming gang leader to Pakistan – UK politics live

The UK Home Office is reportedly considering leveraging visa diplomacy to secure the deportation of a Rochdale grooming gang leader to Pakistan. Sources suggest that Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood might threaten to halt visa issuance to Pakistan unless it agrees to accept the return of the individual.

Mahmood is scheduled to face significant parliamentary scrutiny as the immigration and asylum bill undergoes its second reading. This legislative debate is anticipated to highlight divisions within the Labour party, particularly concerning proposals to extend the waiting period for indefinite leave to remain for migrant workers.

Adding to the day's agenda, the Home Office is also expected to issue a statement on security matters. This follows the recent murder of Ann Widdecombe, prompting a police investigation. While a man has been arrested on suspicion of murder, authorities have stated there is currently no evidence to suggest a political motive behind the killing.