A cross-party group of MPs has warned that the UK asylum system faces collapse due to government inability to manage intense pressures. The public accounts committee report stated the Home Office relied on temporary measures and risked repeating earlier mistakes. Committee chair Geoffrey Clifton-Brown noted the inquiry revealed near-total loss of control, with reactive fixes shifting problems across the system without a unified strategy or strong coordination with other departments and local authorities. The Home Office has proposed changes to asylum and refugee rules, making refugee status temporary and subject to review every 30 months. Conservative MP Harriet Cross addressed US claims of two-tier policing, saying domestic concerns already exist and common-sense policing with equal application of law is needed. Liberal Democrat MP Calum Miller urged the prime minister to summon the US ambassador, calling the comments on the murder of student Henry Nowak foreign interference that fuels division. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy rejected the two-tier policing description during media appearances, stating he does not see it in police interactions and supports review of anti-racism guidance for greater public clarity. Lammy also backed Keir Starmer, confirming the prime minister would enter any leadership contest and noting his own continued loyalty. Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham indicated he would challenge Starmer if a race occurs after his election as an MP. Downing Street responded that Starmer will not step aside.
