SNP MSP Sandra White has welcomed the interim findings of the Independent Asylum Commission's report on the asylum system in the UK and called on the UK to stop inhumane dawn raids on families.

The Commission, chaired by Sir John Waite, has condemned the conduct of enforced returns including the use of dawn raids as "tainted with inhumanity".

Glasgow MSP Sandra White, who has campaigned against dawn raids, said: "This review is one of the most thorough examinations of the asylum system and rightly points to dawn raids and forced removals as a key failure in the system.

"Dawn Raids are inhumane.  Families, often with young children, are being dragged from their beds in the early hours of the morning and taken to detention centres which should not be holding children.
 

"The effect of dawn raids on families can be devastating, causing distress and unrest for those involved.
"The SNP is opposed to dawn raids and the Scottish Government is now supporting asylum seeking families by ensuring the children of asylum seekers have the same rights as any other child in Scotland.

"The UK Government has refused to stop dawn raids in the past.

"With this report including other criticisms of UK practice when it comes to removing asylum seekers the Labour Government has the opportunity to stop dawn raids and end the inhumane treatment of asylum seekers in the UK."

Note:

Report of the Independent Asylum commission

Independent Asylum Commission's review of the UK asylum system - interim findings [1.81MB]

Key findings:

• That the current arrangements for returning people who have been refused sanctuary are not effective and sap credibility and public confidence from the entire asylum system
• That the conduct of some enforced returns is tainted with inhumanity and causes unnecessary distress to the individuals and communities concerned
• That the policy of using destitution as a lever to encourage voluntary return of refused asylum seekers risks forcing some extremely vulnerable people – who might have qualified for sanctuary had their cases been well handled – to face persecution in their country of origin

The Commission was set up by Community Organisations and Charities. It is chaired by Sir John Waite, a former appeal court judge.