This book brings insider knowledge to the study of asylum in Britain today. It is based on visits to places where asylum seekers are detained, on working with lawyers representing asylum-seekers and on a close knowledge of many of the refugee organisations. It argues passionately that Britain shall not throw away, through ignorance and misunderstanding, a reputation for providing a place of safety for the persecuted, and the chance of welcoming people who have much to contribute to national life and culture.
Louise Pirouet (1928-2012) was Senior Lecturer in Religious Studies at Homerton College, University of Cambridge and was involved with refugee concerns for many years both in Africa and Britain.