Letter shows death 'was avoidable'

THE LABOUR MP Bernie Grant yesterday released a letter written by Joy Gardner which, he said, proved that her death earlier this month was 'utterly avoidable', writes Stephen Castle.

The letter, sent to the MP on 20 June 1992, details two visits Ms Gardner made to the police and immigration offices after a deportation notice was signed against her on 24 April 1992.

Mr Grant, MP for Tottenham, said: 'This letter shows that there were at least two occasions when she could have been arrested and deported. This did not happen and it shows that her tragic death was utterly avoidable.'

He added that it reinforced his demand for a full, independent public inquiry.

Ms Gardner's letter refers to visits to the immigration service in south London and to Stoke Newington police in June 1992.

She said: 'Because of this hassle from the immigration I am so confused, depressed and upset, keep getting bouts of headaches. These people are harrassing me so much . . . I keep forgetting things. I am in the middle of taking my exams and do not want to fail.'

Mr Grant believes it will dispel any impression that Ms Gardner evaded the authorities prior to her arrest.