India Delegation hailed a success
A visit to India by Liam Byrne MP, the Minister of State for
Borders and Immigration was hailed a success by the delegation
of Community Leaders who accompanied him.
Dr. Rami Ranger the Chairman of the Pakistan, India & UK
Friendship Forum led the delegation of 10 community leaders from
diverse religious and political affiliation.
The visit came ahead of the Government’s new immigration
regulations and was aimed to give British citizens, who are
heavily involved in India, the chance to visit the visa
application centres and discuss the new regulations with local
officials and locals.
The Punjab Chief Minister, Mr. Prakash Singh Badal hosted a
special lunch in honour of the Minister and delegates. He
promised his Government’s full cooperation in combating illegal
immigration from the State.
The Governor of Punjab Gen. Rodrigues invited the Minister and
delegates to tea and spoke passionately of the need to help the
youth of Punjab.
Dr Ranger MBE said:
I am grateful to the Minister for asking us to accompany him and
also for listening to those who will be affected with the
changes in the immigration/visa rules. I feel that it is
important for the Ministers to interact with individuals members
such as those of this delegation to receive expert advice.”
“I feel more British Ministers should be accompanied by
delegations of community representatives when they travel
abroad, especially with those who originate from there to get a
clearer prospective. It is vital that people understand issues
such as immigration from both sides to communicate objectively
with their people. Moreover, decisions should not be made in
isolation behind closed doors, especially when they affect
people at large”
