A WEST Somerset MP has called on the Government to deport all illegal migrants immediately they arrive.

Sir Ashley Fox, whose Bridgwater constituency includes a number of West Somerset parishes, was speaking in a Parliamentary debate.

He told MPs anybody who arrived in the UK illegally should be deported.

Sir Ashley challenged Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood during the House of Common exchange and said tougher action was needed to stop small boat migrant crossings of the English Channel and restore control of the UK’s borders.

The debate followed the Home Secretary’s announcement that proposed changes to the Government's immigration and settlement rules were being watered down.

Under the Government proposals, refugees who enter the UK illegally, including by small boat, could face a 30-year wait before qualifying for permanent settlement.

Sir Ashley told the House: “Although I welcome the earned progression model, it is disappointing that the Home Secretary has watered down her original proposals under pressure from Cabinet colleagues.

“Her plan to make illegal migrants wait 30 years for permission to remain will not deter any small boat crossings.

“Does she agree that the only way to stop the boats is to deport all those who arrive illegally?”

Ms Mahmood in response defended the Government’s approach and did not agree to Sir Ashley’s call for the deportation of all illegal arrivals.

After the debate, Sir Ashley said: “The British public rightly expects us to control our borders and enforce our immigration laws.

“Making somebody wait 30 years for permanent settlement is not going to stop them getting into a small boat and crossing the channel.

“If people know that arriving illegally will still allow them to remain in Britain, the incentive to make that dangerous journey remains.

“We need a clear and effective deterrent.

“Those who arrive in this country illegally should be detained and deported immediately.”