The right to a fair hearing must be maintained as the government continues to overhaul the UK’s immigration system, says the Law Society of England and Wales.
The Home Office has announced asylum reforms today (17 November).
“Unfair treatment in our justice system harms us all. Asylum reforms should focus on the Home Office getting decisions right first time, not moving the goal posts but acting fairly to support our collective good,” said Law Society president Mark Evans.
“The right to a fair hearing is not optional; it is central to our justice system, especially for people fleeing danger or persecution.
“As well as ensuring the right to a fair hearing, reforms must also respect international treaties, which have been made in good faith to benefit us all.
“Our adherence to international agreements such as the Refugee Convention and European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) enables us to work together with other countries and provides protections for us all by ensuring everyone knows and follows the same rules.
“As reforms take place it is vital that they are tested against these core principles with proper accountability and transparency.”
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