UK MP appeals for urgent review of deportation order against Lankan family

By Sunil Jayasiri  

A British Parliamentarian has urged the UK Government to intervene in the case of a Sri Lankan family facing deportation, arguing that they have become valued members of their local community through their work and public service.  

Speaking in the House of Commons, Liberal Democrat MP Victoria Collins highlighted the case of a person called Rasika, who works as a care worker, and his wife Chamila, a teaching assistant in Northchurch who supports children with special educational needs and volunteers at her local church.   Collins told Parliament that the couple and their three young children have built their lives in her constituency over the past four years and have followed the proper procedures. Despite this, she said, the Home Office has instructed the family to leave the UK and return to Sri Lanka within 14 days.  

Describing the decision as deeply concerning, Collins said local residents had rallied around the family and were in absolute disbelief at the order. She noted that “many in the community regard them as kind, hardworking and dedicated people who have made a positive contribution, calling them “frontline workers and pillars of our community.”  

The MP said she had already written to the Immigration Minister seeking intervention but used her remarks in Parliament to press for urgent action from both the Minister and the Home Office. She also called for reassurance for other families who may be facing similar circumstances.  

Responding to the matter, Deputy Speaker Caroline Nokes acknowledged Collins’ concerns but noted that the issue was not one for the Chair to decide. She advised the MP to work with the Table Office to explore other parliamentary avenues for pursuing the case.