Home Office accused of ‘pro-Islam’ bias

The Home Office has been accused of pro-Islam bias after a Christian woman was granted asylum following a lengthy legal battle.

The Christian Legal Centre said ‘Maria’ fled Islamic persecution to seek asylum in the UK but faced Home Office resistance. According to the CLC, she risked abduction, forced conversion to Islam and possible death if she returned to her country of origin.

After being assessed by a Muslim assessor who was wearing a hijab, Maria’s application was rejected, and the CLC challenged the Home Office’s decision. An initial appeal failed; and following a second, successful, appeal – her case was sent for a retrial.