SVP warns against proposed law that will punish asylum seekers

Image: People Not Walls

Source: SVP

St Vincent de Paul Society (England and Wales) has warned against government plans to introduce legislation which would detain and remove people arriving in the UK to claim asylum. The 'Illegal Migration Bill' will criminalise and punish people seeking asylum rather than provide them with sanctuary, the charity states.

The Illegal Migration Bill, which was introduced to Parliament on 7 March, will prevent most people in need of sanctuary from claiming asylum in the UK. It also fails to provide safe routes for people seeking protection in the UK.

This Bill, if passed in its current form, will allow the Government to make arrangements for the removal of vulnerable people entering the UK to claim protection from war and persecution. It will also make the provision to hold asylum seekers in immigration removal centres including women and people who experienced torture and sexual violence.

Following the introduction of the Bill, Catholic charity, the SVP is urging the Government to create an asylum system which protects those seeking sanctuary and doesn't punish people for seeking a better life.

Pope Francis has called for states to end "the return of migrants to unsafe countries and to give priority to saving lives at sea," something which the SVP strongly endorses as we believe people from all countries seeking refuge should be welcomed.

As a Catholic charity that supports refugees, migrants and asylum seekers, the SVP is concerned the new Bill will leave vulnerable people at risk, and if passed in its current form will strip people fleeing war and persecution of their right to seek safety in the UK.

See also: ICN 7 March 2023 - Rishi Sunak's plan for small boats 'will lock up people fleeing war' www.indcatholicnews.com/news/46683