Comments on: Jacqui Smith's Iran comments misunderstood claims minister

By: Robert, ex-pat Brit

Robert, ex-pat Brit — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 13:18:52 +0000

Smith says…""She accepts that gay and lesbian individuals may need protection."

On what planet is she living? May need protection? Next she'll be denying that gay people in the UK can avoid getting beaten up or killed if they act discreetly by not being so obvious. This woman and her advisors are living in another world, the world of denial. I agree with Paul Canning's comment, the system is rigged especially against gay refugees. Once again, we become the scapegoats, bottom rung of the ladder in the pecking order of things. What sane gay person living in an islamic homophobic culture would risk fleeing to the west knowing that his or her fate would probably end in deportation and to face probable harassment, torture or execution after their asylum cases become public knowledge at the international level? Does Smith et al really believe that gay Iranians for example would receive a warm welcome home in Iran? She's out of touch with reality and so is the Home Office.

(Report comment to the moderator)

By: apYrs

apYrs — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 09:28:33 +0000

immigration and refugee status is a political mimnefield. Populist politicians see getting tough on it as a way to gain support (and this govt needs popularity), but they do so by appealing to people's fears and prejudices. Throwing people out (even to nasty regimes) plays well to the tabloid media and the propaganda the put out to their audiences.

I know there are legitimate issues around immigration etc, but knee-jerk reactions will just send people back to poverty and persecution.

(Report comment to the moderator)

By: paul canning

paul canning — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 17:33:14 +0000

Of course he would say that because these Tribunals go on advice provided by the Home Office!

"Case law" my ass! The whole system's rigged and it's his fault!

(Report comment to the moderator)