Glasgow MSP Bob Doris has spoken out against the decision by the UK Border Agency (UKBA) to terminate its accommodation contract with Glasgow City Council at a demonstration in the city's George Square, today (15 Nov).

Glasgow based charity Positive Action in Housing (PAiH) organised the event to protest against the move, which is expected may result in around 1,000 asylum seekers being forced to move from Glasgow to locations throughout Scotland. Speaking after today's rally, the SNP MSP for Glasgow said: "The uncertainty this has caused for these families in Glasgow is beyond belief. They are seeking sanctuary in our country and many have fled devastating circumstances to get here. That they are now being treated with such contempt by UK authorities, and for no benefit to either society or the public purse, is completely inhumane.

"The actions of the UKBA are not only morally dubious, but are unnecessary. To uproot a family with only a few days notice and to be told they can only take two items of luggage shows a pitiful disregard for the basic rights we should be extending to those seeking sanctuary.

"The decision has been justified on economic grounds, but that point of view fails to address the additional stress which will be placed on council services as a result of moving so many people.

"The UKBA now needs to get back into talks with Glasgow City Council and housing providers to seek alternatives before the consequences of this disastrous decision start to materialise."