From the Revd Dr Nigel Scotland
Sir, - It seems to have escaped the political parties in the
present election debates that there is a right to have and maintain
national borders. Indeed the concept of protecting them is rooted
in the Christian doctrine of sacred space.
Even the most liberal-minded thinkers acknowledge this, albeit
probably unknowingly, when they demand that individuals have the
human right for their personal space to be protected.
Clearly, as a country, we must welcome those in genuine need of
refuge, and others who come to work, though not without limit; but
by this same principle do not the citizens of this nation have the
human right to prevent their national space from being overrun?
NIGEL SCOTLAND
8 The Rowans, Woodmancote, Cheltenham GL52 99L
From the Revd Roger White
Sir, - You led on migrants (News, 24 April), but nowhere in that
edition is there mention of what happens to the refugees. I saw no
word about Britain's responsibility to take a fair share of the EU
burden.
In Germany, we are only too aware of the problem and its
repercussions. Germany has 200,000 to care for, yet a small
proportion of the total flooding into Europe. Many come through
Italy, where there is immediate relief and care, but nowhere for
refugees to go to. So they come to Germany, despite the threat of
being sent back to where they entered Europe.
We in Hamburg, as in many other places countrywide, have people
in containers, in converted old schools and industrial disused
sites, and every week more accommodation must be found and made
ready.
The Lutheran Church plays its part, and the marvellous thing is,
that so many ordinary people, who never thought it possible, find
themselves enjoying being volunteers in welcoming and helping
refugees come to terms with a different culture.
Are you all fearful in Britain? What of? Is it just a matter of
waiting until after the Election and then getting to grips with the
problem? I hope that might be the case. People here are finding
that a window of enrichment is beginning to open in having these
guests among us.
ROGER WHITE,
Spannwisch 7, 22159 Hamburg, Germany