The case was turned down. Sir David Ramsbottom, the Inspector of Prisons, has condemned conditions inside the detention centre. He singled out the policy of transferring detainees to criminal prisons after they lodge complaints about unfair treatment. The growing demand for detention centres like Campsfield arises from the British government's policy of incarcerating greater numbers of asylum seekers. The Immigration Act of 1971 gives authorities the power to detain immigrants without charge or judicial review for an indefinite period.
Refugees have fewer rights than many persons charged with criminal acts.
For instance a refugee cannot remain at liberty by means of bail while awaiting the outcome of an immigration hearing. Amnesty International conducted a survey of 150 asylum seekers detained on June 1, 1996. Their study showed that on average detainees were held for more than five months. The majority had been held from the time of their initial application. This violation of civil liberties is compounded by the restrictions placed on the appeals process.