Immigration has moved up the agenda as the government realises that immigration is an issue it has to tackle.

Home Secretary David Blunkett has developed a reputation for toughness. His proposed Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Bill would impose stricter measures against people coming into the country seeking asylum.

Immigrants could be deported even before their appeals over refugees status are heard.

They would be housed in special centres, possibly on disused military bases - which has not pleased local residents - and their children could even be kept out of local schools.

David Blunkett also wants to better integrate Britain's ethnic communities. Riots in northern towns like Oldham last year showed that racial divisions can be deep.

Mr Blunkett says that immigrants should adopt British customs in "our home". He also plans to allow easier legal immigration for workers whose skills are needed.

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