Overview
- Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the government is monitoring other countries’ discussions with the Taliban and did not rule out UK engagement.
- Officials say any removals under review would target Afghan nationals with criminal convictions or refused asylum claims, following a new voluntary returns offer of up to £10,000 per person.
- Sweden plans to lead EU talks on possible returns, with a Brussels meeting expected this summer that could include Taliban representatives.
- The UK stopped deportations to Afghanistan after the 2021 takeover and does not recognise the Taliban, while resettlement schemes have admitted nearly 40,000 Afghans since then.
- Pressure has grown as Afghans became the top small‑boat arrivals last year at 6,360 and approval rates fell to about 38 percent, leaving many refused applicants stuck without work or support.