Judicial Independence Under Fire: UK Tribunal's Ruling on Gaza Family Sparks Political Clash
February 18, 2025
The court found that the family's circumstances justified their use of the Ukraine settlement scheme, allowing them to stay in the UK on human rights grounds.
Carr highlighted the importance of respecting the judiciary and stated that disagreements with court findings should be addressed through the appellate process.
Keir Starmer echoed the sentiment that immigration policy should be determined by Parliament rather than the judiciary, emphasizing the need for legislative clarity.
Sunak reiterated that it is Parliament's role to legislate and the government's responsibility to set policy, indicating a commitment to tightening immigration rules.
A recent controversy erupted after a tribunal ruled that a Palestinian family from Gaza, whose home was destroyed, should not be removed from the UK, despite initially applying under the wrong scheme.
Lady Sue Carr, the chief justice of England and Wales, expressed her concerns about political remarks made during Prime Minister's Questions regarding this case, labeling them as 'unacceptable' and undermining judicial independence.
Carr criticized Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's assertion that the judicial decision was wrong and that the Home Secretary would work to close a perceived loophole.
In response, Home Secretary Kemi Badenoch defended the right of politicians to discuss judicial matters, arguing for a fundamental overhaul of human rights laws.
Judges emphasized the severe risks faced by the family's youngest children, highlighting the need for their safety in a secure environment.
She warned against criticizing judicial decisions without a full understanding of the legal context, asserting that judges deserve respect and protection.
Carr announced the formation of a taskforce to enhance judicial security in light of rising threats and online abuse directed at judges.
She raised concerns about the increasing tide of online abuse towards judges, often fueled by misreported media coverage.
Summary based on 5 sources
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Sources

BBC News • Feb 18, 2025
Judge 'deeply troubled' by PMQs exchange on Gazans settling in UK
The Guardian • Feb 18, 2025
Top judge ‘deeply troubled’ by PMQs exchange on Gaza asylum case
The Independent • Feb 19, 2025
Starmer in public row with most senior judge over Gaza immigration decision
Evening Standard • Feb 18, 2025
Starmer and Badenoch slammed by top judge over 'inappropriate' comments on Gaza Ukraine ruling