The fast-developing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan demands a generous and comprehensive response from the UK government. Specifically, the fate of millions of displaced people is one that requires international cooperation. Within this cooperation, it is vital that the UK offer good practice for other countries to emulate.

At the All Party Parliamentary Group for refugees Nick Henderson from the Irish Refugee Council told us about the "Direct Provision" Accommodation Centres in the Irish Republic.

Asylum Seekers live in these privately run Accommodation Centres whilst their case is being assessed. They were originally meant for short stays when started in 2001, but are now used for much longer one's and the median stay is 27 months. Around 7,000 people are currently housed like this.

The Nationality and Borders Bill and why all Liberal Democrats should be concerned.

In her at times illogical introduction to the second reading of the Nationality and Borders Bill Home Secretary, Priti Patel, informed the House of Commons that 'the British people have had enough of open borders and uncontrolled immigration' thus using the arguments that won the Brexit vote yet again. If any MP believes that the UK borders are uncontrolled they must be unaware of the £millions which are spent by the border agencies to restrict entry to this country.

Tim Farron MP joined with others in signing a letter from The Bishop of Durham, the Right Rev Paul Butler, vice-chairman, APPG on refugees, vice-chairman, APPG on migration to The Times on 23rd July. This highlighted:

• that the £412 million a year cost to taxpayers of the Nationality and Borders Bill underestimates the cost that society will pay if it fails to respond with compassion to the humanity of those fleeing their homelands and seeking protection in the UK.
• focusing on addressing people trafficking through criminalisation and closing safe routes may fail children and young people seeking sanctuary and push them into the hands of criminals, onto dangerous dinghies and into refrigerated lorries.
• Preventing people from making dangerous journeys can be achieved only by ensuring overall numbers can access safer routes.

You can see the Government's 22 page response here.

LD4SOS think the consultation was a sham as little notice seems to have been taken of the points we and others made.

• 75% of respondents said they opposed many of the policies set out in the New Plan.
• The Government says it wants a fair asylum system; but how can a system that effectively criminalises people in need of protection and leaves many without a safety net, be fair?