A thoughtful document illustrating how to deal with Syrian returners has re-surfaced following Sajid Javid’s decision to strip Shamima Begum of her British citizenship.
The United Kingdom’s Strategy for Countering Terrorism, published in June last year, details a four step approach that should be used to deal with a British woman who travels to join ISIS and has a baby.
They include a managed return to the UK, a criminal investigation, deradicalisation and care for the baby, none of which were applied in the Begum ruling.
The foreword by Home Secretary Javid also calls for a “proportionate and inclusive” response to threats, which many prominent commentators have argued was not applied in this case.
Labour MP David Lammy yesterday said “politicians should not have the power to revoke citizenship”, adding that “those who commit crimes should face justice in the courts”.
The Home Secretary was also branded “opportunistic” by Anthony Lloyd, The Times war reporter who found her in Syria, and this Independent editorial argued that Javid’s selfish ambition has eclipsed his judgement, giving Begum the moral high ground.
