The government was dealt an embarrassing blow on Wednesday after its hardline approach to asylum seekers, which strips late claimants of benefits, was ruled in breach of human rights law.
Under the policy, which was introduced on 8 January, asylum applicants who failed to claim asylum within a reasonable period of time have their benefits stopped.

But in a landmark test case, Mr Justice Collins ruled that "the policy breached human rights laws and there was a real risk of destitution leading to injury to health".

The Home Office has lodged an appeal against the decision, which is due to be heard on 3 March.

Home secretary David Blunkett has vowed to continue with the existing policy.

He said: "This measure is an important part of our asylum reform programme which is dealing with widespread abuse of the system and reducing unfounded claims.

"We must continue to operate a robust policy and people who try to abuse our asylum system will not find us a soft touch."

The case in question was brought on behalf of six asylum seekers by the Refugee Legal Centre.

Source

Housing Today