Letter: Power to Lib Dems

Sir: You ask, "Why are the Liberal Democrats not leading the charge against the latent racism of the present panic about bogus asylum-seekers?" (leading article, 21 September)

If we were not, you would have a point. However, we are about to debate an emergency motion which condemns the Government for abuse of detention and withdrawal of benefits, and for attempting to deter people who attempt to exercise an undoubted right to claim asylum. You are right that this is a basic liberal principle. Reports of its death are grossly exaggerated.

RICHARD ALLAN MP

(Sheffield Hallam)

Earl RUSSELL

Dr EVAN HARRIS MP

(Oxford West and Abingdon)

House of Commons

London SW1