Hundreds protest over asylum act

The Sukula family face eviction from their home

Hundreds of people have joined a mass demonstration in Bolton in protest at the treatment of failed asylum seekers.

It follows the experience of the Sukula family, who fled to the town from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Their benefits were cut and they have been threatened with eviction under the Immigration Act after their application for asylum was turned down.

The 10 boroughs in Greater Manchester have written to the Home Office asking for a review of the Act.

Campaigners say the government's policy makes families like the Sukulas destitute.

Under section nine of the Immigration Act, families whose asylum applications are turned down can have their benefits removed and be evicted from their homes and their children placed in care.

Piloted in Greater Manchester, London and Leeds, the scheme has met with opposition from some local councils.

Bolton Council has so far not evicted the Sukula family who have six children.

The government has said section nine of the asylum act is intended to encourage failed asylum seekers to return home.