We cannot turn our back on refugees after the Annecy attack

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Sadly, many will seize upon the assailant’s refugee status in Sweden as proof that borders should be closed (PA Wire)

The troubling news of the knife attack in Annecy, France, is a multiple tragedy. The six people, including four young children, are the obvious victims and will deserve everyone’s best wishes.

Sadly, many will seize upon the assailant’s refugee status in Sweden as proof that borders should be closed and that all refugees are nothing but ready-made criminals. Hopefully, many more people will recognise that the stabbings are no indication of the wider refugee crisis.

The welcome and support of refugees and asylum seekers need to be managed with sympathy and understanding, coupled with realistic and sustained support required for them to overcome the mental and physical damage they carry. Sadly, such a view is not likely to be encouraged by the UK government, which seems more intent on treating them like battery hens, four or more to a room on converted barges.