Afghanistan

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 10:48 am on 18 August 2021.

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Photo of Ian Blackford Ian Blackford SNP Westminster Leader 10:48, 18 August 2021

I will make some progress before giving way again.

We have just had it demonstrated that the hostile attitude and approach to refugees truly exists and extends to those from Afghanistan. Since the most recent conflict began, in 2001, the Home Office has rejected asylum for 32,000 Afghans, including 875 girls. The total number of Afghans in the system stands at 3,117, so if we are to have any confidence that this is a turning point, this UK Government need to rethink radically how they respond to the refugee crisis unfolding before our eyes.