Patel’s asylum plans lack sense and compassion | Letters

Instead of pursuing cruel and unethical means of controlling immigration, the Home Office must focus on providing safe and legal routes to the UK, write Jewish campaigners for racial equality, while Richard Hargreaves describes Priti Patel's proposals as indefensible

Recently Jewish people marked the start of Sukkot, a Jewish festival rooted in concepts of sanctuary and shelter. We have been disturbed at this time to read reports of deeply unethical Home Office plans for offshore asylum processing, and other measures that would cruelly create barriers to those seeking refuge in this country (Home Office may use nets to stop migrant boats crossing Channel, 11 October).

Priti Patel was correct to acknowledge in her conference speech that the UK's asylum system is broken, and that current delays to asylum applications are unacceptable. The present reality reveals the vital need for fairness and compassion. Asylum seekers fleeing to the UK from conflict and war have found themselves housed in army barracks on arrival.