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STATEMENT FROM SANDY BUCHAN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF REFUGEE ACTION

Wednesday February 3rd 2010

Following the announcement that the Home Affairs Select Committee has called for an investigation into the alleged mistreatment of asylum seekers at one of the government's major centres for processing claims, Sandy Buchan, Chief Executive of Refugee Action, said:

"These are serious and appalling allegations that need a full investigation. They accuse officials of humiliating asylum applicants, failing to conduct interviews with lawyers or tape recorders and even taking pride in refusing applications. People who have fled persecution have the right to be treated with dignity, understanding and fairness. After all, a wrong decision can mean the difference between life and death. The UK Border Agency has a duty to employ and train people to the highest possible level so that they have the skills and the right attitude to assess cases firmly and thoroughly. The involvement of lawyers and independent witnesses is vital to ensure total transparency."

ENDS

For more information please contact Dan Hodges, Director of Communications, on 07713 621252 or Julia Ravenscroft, Press Officer, on 0161 831 5454/ 07771 748 159.

Notes:

Refugee Action is an independent, national charity working to enable refugees to build new lives in the UK. We provide practical advice and assistance for newly arrived asylum seekers and support their settlement through community development work. As one of the country's leading agencies in the field, Refugee Action has 28 years' experience in pioneering innovative work in partnership with refugees and advised more than 40,000 asylum seekers and refugees last year. For more information, visit www.refugee-action.org.uk