Today, Home Secretary Theresa May used the Conservative Party Conference to deliver a scathing attack on the UK asylum system, including plans to limit the right to claim asylum within the UK.

In response, Stephen Hale, Chief Executive of Refugee Action said:

“Public support and compassion towards refugees escaping conflict is at an all-time high. So it’s truly remarkable that the Home Secretary has suggested that Britain should prevent people claiming asylum after arriving here.

“The UK has a moral and a legal duty to help people in need. Everyone should have the right to claim asylum, regardless of their nationality or how they make their claim.

“The British people have made very clear that they want the UK to play our part in responding to the global refugee crisis. Closing the door to asylum applications does not achieve that.

Refugee Action looks forward to discussing with the Home Secretary and all other interested parties how the UK asylum system can be made fairer and more effective. Let’s make sure that all those genuinely in need of protection are granted asylum.”

Media enquires

Stephen Hale, Refugee Action’s Chief Executive is available for interview.

For further information please contact the Refugee Action Media Team on media@refugee-action.org.uk or call 020 7952 1530. For out of hours enquiries call 07703 609094.