VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR SLOVAK ROMA

Early day motion 51, tabled 26 November 1998 by Evan Harris (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 18 members.

That this House notes the view of the UNHCR and other reputable human rights bodies, that 'Slovak Roma may well be able to substantiate refugee claims based on severe discrimination on ethnic grounds'; notes that asylum applications from Slovak Roma are certified as 'manifestly unfounded' but that in nearly all appeal cases heard the courts have struck down the certificate of 'manifestly unfounded' and in the majority of the 23 cases taken to appeal by the Refugee Legal Centre the courts have actually granted refugee status; further notes that the imposition of a visa requirement on Slovakian citizens seeking asylum will prevent those Roma fleeing persecution and discrimination from ever reaching these shores, let alone successfully claiming asylum; and urges the Government to reconsider the recent imposition of a visa requirement.

Signatures by party: Labour 13, Liberal Democrat 5.