DEPORTATION OF ASYLUM SEEKERS AT RISK OF RELIGIOUS PERSECUTION

Early day motion 1203, tabled 17 March 2008 by Greg Mulholland (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 82 members.

That this House notes with deep concern and regret that many of those who come to this country seeking asylum are currently facing deportation to countries where they are at risk of persecution, torture and worse as a result of their religious beliefs; believes that this is the case with deporting practising Christians to Iran with evidence that shows that they face persecution; notes the case of Mr Ali Pourakaberian who faces deportation back to Iran despite the fact that the Iranian authorities are aware that he is a practising Christian; and believes that there should be a moratorium for all those facing deportation when there is a serious and credible risk that they will face persecution in their country of origin as a result of their religious beliefs and that this should include Iranian Christians.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 38, Labour 33, Scottish National Party 4, DUP 2, Social Democratic and Labour Party 2, Conservative 1, Independent 1, UUP 1.