The Home Office claims are disingenuous (Asylum seekers are left destitute by Home Office, 10 July). When Theresa May was home secretary she promoted the concept of a “hostile environment” for asylum seekers. Refugee Action has revealed exactly what this means; the rules are now so complex and harsh that they cause widespread unhappiness and hardship. For a civilised country with a tradition of welcome and sanctuary, this is a disgrace. Incompetence, deliberate delaying tactics, unnecessary complexity and fruitless court cases systematically mock the “proud history” the Home Office loves to quote. A complete change in attitude is required. What about the promotion of a “humane environment” as the basis for redrawn rules?
Edward Milner
Chair, Santé Refugee Mental Health Access Project
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