** Labour Party Allocates £392 Million for Deportation Services Amid Controversy **
** The UK Labour Party has announced plans to invest between £179 million and £392 million over the next seven years for a comprehensive deportation service aimed at tackling illegal migration. According to documents obtained by The Independent, the Home Office is seeking a contractor to manage deportation flights and provide services including relationship management with airlines and accommodation for staff.
The announcement has drawn criticism, with the Refugee Council labeling the initiative as "performative." Former Green Party leader Caroline Lucas expressed concerns over Labour's approach, suggesting it mirrors tactics used by the far-right.
Defending the plans, Labour MP for Dover and Deal Mike Tapp stated that the previous government left a poorly managed immigration system, adding that the party has already deported a record 16,400 individuals in just six months. However, other members, including Labour MP Kim Johnson, expressed alarm over the party adopting what they perceive as overly harsh policies.
The contract for these services is expected to be awarded next month, as Labour seeks to demonstrate its commitment to border security amid rising political pressure.
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