"Let asylum seekers find work" says Leader of TH Liberal Democrats.

3.22.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 20th Dec 2007

Councillor Stephanie Eaton - Leader of Tower Hamlets Liberal Democrats group

Councillor Stephanie Eaton reflects on the experience of asylum seekers in Tower Hamlets.

Recently I spoke with some Iraqi Kurds who were selling tobacco illegally in markets off Brick Lane. They described to me the difficulty they have in supporting themselves as they are not allowed to take legitimate employment. I was told about men living four people to a room, and earning £40 for a 12 hour day.

Many asylum seekers have fled from terrible circumstances. Those without a basis for their claim should be deported, but legitimate asylum seekers should be given support to remain in this country until it is safe for them to return home or they are given permission to stay. This includes allowing them the right to be full economic and social members of our community: to work, study, and participate.

Liberal Democrats are against the government's prohibition on working rights for asylum seekers. We believe that applicants for asylum should be allowed to work from two months after their application date. This would not only empower genuine asylum seekers to integrate and contribute to the UK economy, but it would also reduce dependency on benefits and housing support.

My experience of speaking with asylum seekers in our Borough was that they were willing and able to work, to reduce their burden on the taxpayer and to improve their own lives. They were not selling illegal tobacco because they wanted to, but because it was one of the few options available to them. Allowing asylum seekers to work is humane and cost-effective, and it could reduce one reason for illegal trading in tobacco... all of which would be good for Tower Hamlets.