The Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration John Vine has published his Annual Report for 2012/13.

The report catalogues a series of problems with the UK asylum system, highlighting lengthy and distressing delays faced by asylum applicants, including unaccompanied children.

It also recounts difficulties with the dissolution of the UK Border Agency and subsequent transfer of powers to the Home Office.

While the report is a reflection on previous findings, it is a stark reminder of the debacle uncovered by the inspection into the handling of asylum legacy cases.

Earlier this year, the Refugee Council was shocked to hear of the scant regard the Home Office paid to those whose futures it held in its hands. Whilst people waited to learn their fate, the Home Office continued to hide the truth and wrongly blame applicants for the problems.

Refugee Council Policy Officer Judith Dennis said:

“Whilst we are confident that there has been some improvement during 2013, the Home Office must never forget that customer service means treating people with respect and dignity.

“The Refugee Council believes that Government needs to ensure the UK asylum system commands the confidence of both the people seeking its protection and the wider public.”