ADSS raises serious concerns over asylum policy

Serious concerns about the government’s policy that can
lead to failed asylum seekers who refuse to leave the UK having
their children taken into care were raised by the Association of
Directors of Social Services today, writes Amy
Taylor.

In a statement that will be sent to the government and made
public this afternoon the Association says that the policy
conflicts with child care legislation and is likely to have an
adverse effect on the children concerned.

The statement adds that it is likely to lead to judicial review
in individual cases and both local authorities and the Home Office
might be challenged in this way.

The policy, which is contained in section 9 of the Asylum and
Immigration (Treatment of Claimants, etc) Act 2004, is being
piloted in parts of London, greater Manchester and Leeds.

The Immigration and Nationality Directorate is carrying out an
evaluation of the pilots and the ADSS says that the Home Office
must not extend the pilots until the evaluation is completed. It
goes on to urge all parties involved to respond to the
exercise.