Yvette Cooper accused of pushing children towards people smugglers by halting refugee scheme

Home secretary under fire over suspension of family reunion system that she said was at risk of exploitation

Yvette Cooper has been accused of pushing children “into the arms of people smugglers” after halting a scheme allowing refugees to bring their family to the UK.

The home secretary said the refugee family reunion route was at risk of exploitation and she would “temporarily suspend new applications” until tougher rules are introduced next year.