The following key myths have been published on the Southampton City Council website, to dispel some of the myths about refugees and asylum seekers.
Scare stories abound while balanced informed debate based on facts is sadly lacking in the public arena. We set out here some of the key myths and the key facts which you should know if you are to arrive at a better understanding of asylum.
Myth: Almost all asylum seekers are bogus
There were 84,130 asylum applications made in one year in the UK, one of the highest on record, yet 48% or nearly half of all asylum claimants that year were recognised as having the legitimate right to remain in this country.
Myth: Britain is a soft touch and gets more than its fair share of asylum seekers
The UK, one of the richest countries in the world, hosts only 3% of the world's total refugee population.
Myth: Asylum Seekers take our jobs
A report by The Council for Assisting Refugee Academics (CARA) in march 2005, estimated that there were 1,500 doctors, dentists and other health workers living as refugees in Britain but only a few are employed in their own profession.
Myth: Arriving in Britain means asylum seekers start an easy life on welfare benefits
Adult asylum seekers are not permitted to work and therefore have to rely on state support which is set at 30% below the normal level of income support.
Myth: Asylum Seekers and Refugees jump local council housing queues
Asylum seekers are housed according to a completely different government system of support to British residents and are not entitled to council housing tenancy or housing benefit.
Myth: Immigrants are here for free healthcare on the NHS
There are rules preventing access to the NHS for those on visitor visas and for failed asylum seekers.
Myth: The media and politicians are leading an informed and balanced debate on the asylum issue
There is widespread concern that media coverage is unbalanced, poorly researched and hostile, and that politicians have not done enough to enlighten the public about the issue.