From Suzanne Fletcher
Sir, - Thank you for publishing your report on the Detention
Inquiry (News, 25
July). It rightly draws attention to the situation we have in
the UK of detaining people for an indefinite time for immigration
purposes.
Many of the readers of the Church Times will have, or
have had, contact with people who are, or have been, in one of the
detention centres at some time. First-hand evidence to the All
Party Parliamentary Group is essential, so that the situation can
be fully understood, and, it is hoped, overhauled, by
decision-takers and policy-makers.
It is understandable that those who do not have settled status,
and therefore feel insecure, are reluctant to tell their story
publicly, but evidence can be given in writing, and people can ask
for their details to be withheld. Readers could assist anyone
wanting to tell his or her story to submit it, or even arrange for
a local hearing to encourage the stories that need to be told.
Details of how to make a submission, or for groups takingpart,
and more information are available at detentionforum@gmail.com or
via Twitter @Detention-Forum.
Not only is such detention unnecessary and a waste of money, but
it is a shameful waste of lives.
SUZANNE FLETCHER
3 Hoylake Way, Eaglescliffe,
Stockton on Tees TS16 9EU
