Scottish Affairs Committee Members to meet UK Border Agency

The Committee will also meet with Glasgow City Council and the Scottish Refugee Council.

The meetings form part of a new inquiry by the Committee into UKBA’s decision to terminate its 10-year contract with Glasgow City Council to provide housing for asylum seekers.

Ian Davidson MP, Chair of the Committee, said:

"We are very concerned about the impact of the UK Border Agency’s decision to terminate its contract with the council. In particular, we find the manner in which UKBA communicated its decision to the individuals and families involved – via a letter threatening only a very short notice period for people to leave their homes – extremely troubling.

"This is frightening situation for anyone to find themselves in, particularly for those considered to be among the most vulnerable in our society. It is vital that families are reassured that a longer period of time is guaranteed in order for the problem to be resolved.

"The aim of our inquiry is not only to establish the facts around this case but also to ensure everything possible is done so that families do not have to endure such a distressing situation again."

The Committee is seeking a meeting with the Immigration Minister, Damian Green MP, and will also invite written evidence to inform its inquiry.