Appalled at the tragedies in the Mediterranean that are happening, Liberal Democrats for Seekers of Sanctuary have written to the Prime Minister endorsing the letter sent by 19 aid, refugee and human rights charities urging more to be done to help people to reach Europe in safety.
Our best tribute to Charles Kennedy would be to make sure what he said here, 10 years ago, is understood by those who need to understand it. "The vast majority of people seeking refuge in our country, as they have historically over decades and centuries are here for probably for the worst reason in the country that they are leaving and the very best reasons our country represents internationally. If somebody arrives in Britain with documentation but they've flown from some war torn area of civil strife or persecution, then you might not expect us all to have packed our toothbrush, our passport, our necessary papers in such circumstances, if they're running for their lives." (Quote found courtesy of Refugee Council). Refugee Council's photo. Refugee Council Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Charles Kennedy today. When the asylum debate was at its most toxic 10+ years ago and few politicians were speaking up for refugees, this is what he said.
This web page has been visited, and read by many - but we now need you to join our organisation too. Whilst we run the organisation on a very thin shoestring, it does cost money to maintain our presence and effectiveness throughout the year.
We are writing yet again about the terrible situation in the Mediterranean, asking you to take some action now.
CONGRATULATIONS TO TIM FARRON, new Liberal Democrat Party leader. We are delighted that Tim is our new leader, and look forward a positive relationship with him to take our issues forward. He has just said we stand for "hope, courage and belief", and he is leading us in that. Surely what we need in this country now for those who seek sanctuary with us.
As in http://www.ld4sos.org.uk/archives/387 the Home Office tried to sneak through drastic cuts to the asylum support rate for children in the dying days of the last Parliament, but were halted from doing so by swift action from Nick Clegg, the last thing he was able to do in office.