June 2019
Thank you for contacting me about support for victims of torture. All read carefully and noted by me.
The UK has a proud history of granting asylum to those who need our protection. When making these decisions, the Government is committed to helping people who have suffered from violence, including torture, at an early point in the asylum process so that decision makers can grant protection, where necessary, without undue delay.
I fully appreciate that in these situations, claimants may be under severe emotional pressure, which is why the Home Office provides relevant information to asylum claimants throughout the process, including signposting to any support they may require. All asylum claimants are provided with a comprehensive leaflet that sets out what to expect at the asylum interview, the possible outcomes of the asylum claim, how to obtain legal advice to support their claim, details of support organisations that might be relevant, rights and responsibilities of asylum seekers, and information about asylum support and how to apply.
The Home Office will always provide asylum seekers with accommodation and support to meet their essential living needs if they would otherwise be destitute.
Anyone who falls within the scope of the adults at risk in immigration detention policy, including individuals who may have been a victim of torture, will only be detained when the evidence of vulnerability in their case is outweighed by the immigration considerations.
I would like to be absolutely clear that the Government condemns torture of any kind. It is a priority for the UK to combat it wherever and whenever it occurs. Where concerns exist over the possible use of torture, my colleagues in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office will never be afraid to make their opposition known at the highest levels.
Once again thank you for bringing your views to my attention.
With best wishes.
Kind regards,
Jonathan Lord
Member of Parliament for Woking