If there is one thing we can learn from the USA, it is how not to deal with illegal immigrants.Periodically, the so-called 'wet backs' from Mexico are granted amnesties to legitimise their status.
This is profoundly wrong both ethically and in the practice. Nobody should ever benefit from illegal behaviour!
There are rumblings from our gutless government to suggest that a wholesale amnesty would 'have many benefits'.
The problem is that you send a message of invitation to other would-be illegals who have not yet made up their minds. The government is already legitimising countless illegals on a case by case basis which is manifestly absurd.
In Madrid and Barcelona, during the 70s and 80s, many people came from the countryside and built themselves shanty towns on the outskirts. The local Ayuntamientos then legitimised the behaviour of those living in these hovels - or chabolas - by offering them council accommodation. The problem promptly multiplied many times over.
Can we please learn this rather obvious lesson?
[I think I know the answer to my own question!]
Photo: Chabolas.
