Havel concern at checks on travellers
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Czech President, Vaclav Havel, has expressed concern about British immigration checks recently introduced at Prague's international airport.
A statement released by Mr Havel's spokesman yesterday said: "Although the President is aware of the reasons that prompted the British side to introduce this temporary, technical measure ... [Mr Havel] considers some of the circumstances that accompany its implementation disturbing."
The spokesman said the checks must be made with respect for human rights and the protection of personal data. "Should these principles be violated, the procedure would be no longer acceptable."
On 18 July, British immigration officers began checking all passengers travelling from Prague's Ruzyne International Airport to London in an effort to reduce the number of Czechs seeking asylum in Britain.
The measures, agreed by authorities on both sides, aimed to identify people with legitimate claims for asylum.Some 100 Czech citizens, most of them Roma, have been denied entry since the checks began. Roma leaders and some Czech politicians have condemned the airport selection, calling it discriminatory.(AP)
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments