Activists seek support for bid to save two Iranian asylum-seekers

by LOUISE NOUSRATPOUR in Manchester
Sunday September 21, 2008
The Morning Star

Convention of the Left 2008: REFUGEE activists urged the Convention of the Left on Saturday to support campaigns by two Iranian asylum-seekers facing deportation.

The Child M Campaign was recently launched in support of an eight-year old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, and his family, who are facing removal.

"They face persecution if they are returned to Iran. They are accused of circulating Salman Rushdie's banned book The Satanic Verses," campaign spokeswoman Zoe Cantle told the conference.

The Home Office recently locked up M and his family for 51 days, conference heard. They were released two weeks ago and allowed to return to Manchester.

"We have heard reports about the harmful effects of detention on children," Ms Cantle said. "These effects were very visible in child M, who lost his hair and developed ringworm, as well as falling behind in school."

The family has launched a High Court challenge and the campaign has gathered over 1,000 petition signatures. "But we need your help to win this case," Ms Cantle said.

Let Bahman Stay is another campaign launched in Manchester against Home Office attempts to deport 16-year-old Bahman Mohammadi.

"In the wake of US military threats against Iran, the regime has stepped up efforts to recruit young people into its secret police force," campaign speaker Marian Sudbury said.

"Bahman refused to join the force and, fearing persecution, he soon had to flee Iran for Britain. Now, the British authorities want to sent him back. We urge you to support his campaign to remain here."