§ Lord Lester of Herne Hillasked Her Majesty's Government:
What has been their legislative and other response to the "particular concern" expressed by the European Commission against racism and intolerance, in its Second Report on the United Kingdom, adopted on 16 June 2000, regarding the "Effect of changes to immigration and asylum policies on the situation and public perception of asylum seekers, refugees and minority groups". [HL2033]
§ The Minister of State, Home Office (Baroness Scotland of Asthal)The Government's response was published along with the report itself. The Government rejected then, and reject now, the argument that necessary measures taken to prevent abuse of the right of asylum can be held responsible for manifestations of racism and xenophobia. Since the report and the United Kingdom's response were published, the system of issuing vouchers to asylum seekers has been discontinued.