HL Deb 03 June 1998 vol 590 cc39-40WA
Lord Judd

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they have studied Document 8066 of 7 April prepared for the Council of Europe by Mrs. Inga-Britt Johanssen on the Situation of Refugee Women in Europe; and how far their own policy meets the recommendations in the document. [HL1923]

Lord Williams of Mostyn

Government policy is consistent with the approach recommended by Mrs. Johanssen.

All asylum applications, whether from men or women, are considered without discrimination in accordance with the criteria set out in the 1951 United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees. Gender is taken into account in the assessment of individual claims where this is relevant.

To meet our obligations to help male and female refugees to resettle in the United Kingdom, we give grants to voluntary organisations who assist with the reception and resettlement of both refugees and asylum seekers. These organisations provide advice and support to individuals and strive to improve their access to the available statutory services. They also work to develop refugee community groups, local groups and self-help organisations.