Oxfam reaction to UK Government plan to fly asylum seekers thousands of miles to offshore processing centre

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Responding to today's announcement that the UK Government will fly some asylum seekers thousands of miles to an offshore "processing centre", Oxfam’s Head of Government Relations, Sam Nadel, said:

"This plan is not only cruel and immoral but also impractical. Everyone should have access to a fair asylum process.

“Alongside the harmful Borders Bill, this is yet another example of the Government abdicating its responsibility to provide a place of safety for those fleeing conflict and persecution.

"The war in Ukraine is a stark reminder of the importance of a functioning and humane asylum system. The UK should reverse this deeply damaging policy and, alongside a fair asylum system, should provide more safe and legal routes for people to reach safety in the UK. The Government should also ensure alternative long-term solutions to address the root causes of forced displacement."

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For more information, or to arrange an interview please contact: Sarah Dransfield in the Oxfam Press Office on 07884 114825 / sdransfield@oxfam.org.uk

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