Minister for refugees proposed

LONDON: Britain should create a minister for refugees and draw up a new national strategy to improve their integration, a group of lawmakers said, adding that too many were ending up homeless and destitute.

Government policies have led to a “two-tier system” with refugees resettled in Britain receiving more help than those granted refugee status after arriving as asylum seekers, according to a cross-party parliamentary report.

The lawmakers said it was crucial that refugees receive more help to access English language classes, health services, education, training and jobs.

“Refugees bring so many talents and skills, they just need the opportunities to unlock their potential,” said Thangam Debbonaire, chairman of the cross-party group, in a statement yesterday.