Public will examine main centre’s work

The government is to be invited to give evidence to an inquiry
into the services and facilities at the main processing centre for
asylum applications.

The “citizen’s inquiry”, launched by community organisation South
London Citizens, will hear evidence from staff working at the
Immigration and Nationality Directorate centre in Croydon, south
London, and people using the service

The group had decided to carry out the inquiry following reports of
bad experiences from both sides, said group organiser Neil
Jameson.

He added that the inquiry would be independent as the group did not
take government money, and said that ministers would have to take
its findings seriously.

The six-month inquiry will begin on 5 March and will be chaired by
the former bishop of Southwark, Bishop Charles Henderson, and human
rights lawyer Eleanor Sharpston QC. However, the inquiry has no
statutory powers.

The government will be invited to respond at a second hearing in
June.

  • Interested parties should submit evidence by 28 February. Go to
    www.southlondoncitizens.org.uk

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