The Independent Asylum Commission launched ‘Citizens Speak’, a country-wide consultation on the asylum system, on Friday. Members of the public are being asked to contribute to the Commission’s enquiry into the efficacy of the asylum system, the conclusions of which are due to be published later this year.
Everyone is invited to take part, through forums ranging from radio stations and online television channels to specially set up ‘People’s Commissions’.
The Independent Asylum Commission’s Co-ordinator said:
“The Independent Asylum Commission wants to make recommendations that command the confidence of the British people. To do that, we have to understand the values that influence ordinary citizens’ thinking on issues like asylum. Many people feel that their voices are not heard when decisions are made about asylum – through Citizens Speak any member of the public can submit their views to the Commissioners and know that their voice will be listened to. This is not a consultation for experts. We want to hear from ordinary citizens and are as much interested in what they feel and think as what they know.”
The Commission comprises twelve commissioners, including a bishop, three members of the House of Lords, an ex-immigration judge and a refugee.
More information can be accessed at http://www.citizensspeak.org.uk/
