Home Office Spent £21,635 on Guidance Informing Asylum Seekers Rape is a Crime
The government department revealed the cost of a document that also advises on gender equality and respect in public.
The Home Office has acknowledged spending £21,635 of taxpayer funds on a guide for asylum seekers that explicitly states rape is a crime. This controversial nine-page document, titled 'Understanding behaviours and expectations in the UK: a guide for asylum seekers,' was published in August.
In addition to defining rape and sex with an underage individual as serious crimes, the guide offers information on gender equality and the importance of respect in public spaces. It is intended for migrants seeking asylum in the UK.
The cost was disclosed by Home Office minister Anna Turley in response to a written parliamentary question from Tory MP Neil Shastri-Hurst. Dr. Shastri-Hurst described the expenditure as "ludicrous," questioning the necessity of such a publication.
Ms. Turley stated that no physical copies of the document have been printed, ordered, or distributed, thus incurring no distribution costs. The total expenditure of £21,635 covered the development of the materials.
Dr. Shastri-Hurst criticized the government's spending priorities, remarking that the public is "despairing at this Government's priorities."
The Prime Minister previously defended the guidance in August, asserting the importance of making clear the UK's societal norms and laws. He emphasized that individuals who break UK law face removal from the country, citing an increase in immigration removals.
The guide itself states its purpose is to help asylum seekers "understand what is expected of you when living in the UK," adding that these rules and expectations apply to everyone residing in the country.
Under the section "sex and consent," the document informs asylum seekers that "consent is needed in every situation." It also addresses gender equality, noting that equal rights are "an important part of UK culture… protected by law." The guidance further encourages respect for others, regardless of their beliefs or lifestyle, and provides contact information for helplines assisting those affected by abuse.