Why they can claim asylum in Britain

VIETNAM is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, but its citizens face severe restrictions on their political freedoms.

The communist government suppresses political dissent and all political parties, labour unions and human rights groups are banned.

Vietnamese people may bring a claim for asylum in the UK on the basis of fear of persecution by the state because of their opposition to the government; because they are at risk of trafficking; or because they face persecution over their religious beliefs.

A total of 759 asylum applications were made by people from Vietnam last year but only 71 were granted.