Churches disappointed by tough new policy on refugees
THE CHURCHES' Commission for Racial Justice (CCJR) has rejected a new government scheme to withdraw support for refugees who claim asylum after they arrive in Britain, insisting that the new codes will not deter people from seeking refuge.
A spokesman for CCJR said it was "very disappointed" by the Government's action. Churches across the country were "very concerned about the implications of the new legislation and we must by all means be prepared to support applicants," he said.
The Refugee Council has argued that over 60 per cent of asylum seekers file their claims post arrival in Britain simply because they do not understand the procedures or are fearful no report to immigration officers at ports and airports.
The new measures came into effect on January 8.