MEP demands ombudsman to probe immigration complaints

Date: 02/05/02

By Martin Banks

EVERY member state should have an immigration ombudsman to investigate complaints about the behaviour of immigration officials at airports, train stations and ports, according to a campaigning MEP.

Claude Moraes, who is of Asian origin and one of only ten ethnic minority members in the Parliament, says an independent watchdog is needed 'as soon as possible' to probe such allegations.

In a letter to European Voice last week, Moraes said he was 'sick and tired' of being subjected to questioning and delays at airports.

'It happens all the time and I can think the only reason is because I am coloured,' he said.

'But people currently have no one to complain to when this sort of thing happens,' said Moraes, a UK Socialist.

His concerns were echoed by Tanzanian-born Conservative deputy Bashir Khanbhai.

He said many member state governments had failed to inform immigration officials about the 'Laissez Passer', a special passport issued to each of the 626 MEPs which is supposed to allow them free passage in the EU. It can be used instead of a national passport, but Khanbhai says most immigration officials are unaware of its existence.

'When you show them the pass, the reaction from immigration staff is usually: 'What's this?' They simply don't know whether to accept it or not,' he said.

'It is very embarrassing going to national airports and to have immigration staff look at you as if you are an asylum-seeker.

'It's not just me - this happens to other MEPs as well. If the Laissez Passer isn't going to be recognised it should be withdrawn and binned.'

Every Member State should have an immigration ombudsman to investigate complaints about the behaviour of immigration officials at airports, train stations and ports, according to MEP Claude Moraes.