Changes to the Immigration Rules another breach of international law

Liberal Democrat Home Affairs Spokesperson Alistair Carmichael has slammed the Government’s latest changes to the Immigration Rules (available here) as “against everything the UK stands for” and “yet another breach of international law”. The changes, published today, which will allow the Home Office to reject asylum applications if the person has passed through another “safe” country on their way to the UK. Alistair Carmichael said: “The UK has a proud history of providing sanctuary to those in need, but now the Conservative Government is turning its back on refugees. “This latest nasty policy from Priti Patel goes against our commitments under the Refugee Convention and against everything the UK stands for. It’s yet another breach of international law by this irresponsible Tory Government. “Everyone wants to stop people making dangerous attempts to cross the Channel, but the best way to do that is with safe and legal routes to sanctuary in the UK. Sadly, Priti Patel has closed down those routes. “We must do all we can to protect people forced to flee their homes to escape war and persecution. The UK should welcome them with compassion and treat them with dignity.”