Yvette Cooper is facing backlash for suspending new applications for a scheme which allows refugees to bring their family members to the UK – especially as she previously campaigned in favour of uniting relatives.

The home secretary announced plans this week to overhaul the asylum system following a summer of protests and backlash against asylum hotels.

Despite promising to “smash the people-smuggling gangs” and reduce the number of small boats coming across the Channel, the number of asylum seekers has risen under the Labour government.

So Cooper tried to seize control of the situation with this temporary suspension of the family applications, claiming people-smugglers often use this scheme to attract estranged relatives to make the dangerous journey to UK shores.

However, some

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