British family to be deported from New Zealand because of brain tumour

[naomi24]

Paul and Sarah Crystal and their children, aged 7, 15 and 17, moved to New Zealand more than six years ago but their application for permanent residency was turned down because the government was concerned about his inability to work and the treatment cost. Should Britain take a leaf out of New Zealand’s book and return anyone incapable of supporting themselves to their native country?

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/australiaandthepacific/newzealand/9717233/British-family-to-be-deported-from-New-Zealand-because-of-brain-tumour.html

[jno]

the case is under review and the family is receiving emergency benefit. The wife is working but doesn't make enough to support the family. Some of the problem seems to be at this end: if they came back they wouldn't be entitled to benefits here either because they've been away more than two years.

[emmie]

bit of a double whammy then.

[shaughan]

No - as a New Zealander I'm disgusted with my countries lack of empathy. Our politicians are self serving and election oriented. In this situation, we show how poorly our public image matches our political reality.

[Kromovaracun]

Britain does require huge amounts of money to be paid to the state for naturalisation. And for the 5 years you are here beforehand you have to prove that you are capable of sustaining yourself.

This decision is extremely inhumane in my opinion, and immigration officials should take that into account. Especially if they have been charged anything akin to our NHS surcharge.