EDM 475: Lobby of Parliament by refugee groups

That this House welcomes the lobby of Parliament by refugee groups including Northumberland County of Sanctuary; acknowledges that the UK has, for centuries, provided a safe haven for those fleeing oppression; understands that many people seeking asylum display qualities of great courage and resilience and have abilities which can serve this country well; and further acknowledges the need to hear from those inside the asylum system about important ways to reduce the costs of asylum, smash the illicit market in human traffic by enabling safe routes to get to the UK, and to treat human beings with dignity and fairness ahead of the forthcoming borders, asylum and immigration bill.