Shame on Des Turner MP for linking an open debate on the Government's asylum policy with the possibility of racial prejudice.

The Labour Party clearly does not want a debate because it would highlight its complete incompetence over the issue.

Firstly, local people are told a local hotel will not be used to house asylum seekers, then the Home Office does a U-turn.

To question such a policy - when even the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Ruud Lubbers, recently said more refugees were targeting the UK because of its international reputation of being a soft touch - is certainly not racially prejudiced.

It is time Labour recognised the huge issue of economic migrancy, whereby people believe they can come to this country not because they are fleeing an oppressive regime or war-torn country, but solely because they believe they will be better off financially.

Just as local Labour policies are failing local people, decisions taken on a local level are giving people real cause for concern. It is only when open and fair debate is stifled that racism and bigotry fester.

-Jonathan Sheppard, Coombe Road, Brighton