Over the years, UK has seen different kind of immigration but when Asians from Uganda were expelled in 1970, there was a huge uproar in the country. How would the country accommodate these so called aliens with altogether different culture, costume and religion?
At the time, racial prejudice and discrimination was rampant. However, this hard working, law abiding community who had come to integrate won the heart and mind of the people by filling the job vacancies available and reviving the small independent failing businesses within a matter of time. Very successful back in Uganda, this proud community did not want to be burden to the state. The interwoven quality of fairness, honesty, hard work coupled with entrepreneur skill played pivotal part in bringing the vital change to the country.
Whilst Labour was in power, during an economic boom, they opened doors to skilled migrants to fill the jobs. Student visas were issued without much vouching.
The Labour failure is for two reasons: irresponsible immigration and irresponsible lending by banks, price of which it is still paying. The migrants, who were not lucky enough to get their visa extended, have not returned empty handed. They have defrauded Credit Card Companies and Banks in several thousands.
UK is a fair, tolerant country. Its kindness mustn’t be taken as weakness. British Asian owes a lot to this country.
Niranjan Vasant
London
