Church Leaders in UK Uniting to Challenge the Asylum System

Religious leaders from several leading denominations have released a statement expressing their dismay over the asylum system in the UK; regarding it as "unjust."

The statement was signed by Richard Oxon, David Coffey, Moderator of Free Churches, Crispian Hollis, Roman Catholic Bishop of Portsmouth, Sheila Maxey, Moderator of General Assembly of the United Reformed Church and Will Morrey, President of Methodist Conference on 2nd May 2005.

Reports from many local churches received by "failed asylum seekers" show that they have been treated unfairly and wrongly in being denied their refugee status.

This has led to the Church leaders making the statement where they are attempting to point out the problems that have been highlighted during the immigration process, interviews and appeals.

Members of Church "frequently meet people seeking asylum, as fellow worshippers and through agencies providing friendship and practical help."

Subsequently they have expressed concerns about the quality of the initial interviews, where nine out of ten applications are refused, and 20% of appeals against refusal are then successful.

According to many reports received from applicants for asylum, adjudicators' questions reveal a distinct lack of knowledge about the current situation in the country of their origin, relying on out-of-date information and evidence instead of paying attention to up-to-date evidence.

The issue has been stirred up by a recent case of "Daniel's family" and the upcoming General Elections, where it has been attempted to promote the fair and just attitude towards genuine refugees and asylum seekers.

The statement of Church representatives concluded: "We hope that in this election all people of good will, whether or not they have a religious faith, will challenge candidates to give priority to ensuring just and compassionate treatment for those who have come to this country seeking asylum and believing it to practise such values."