ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that black and minority ethnic groups domiciled in the United Kingdom (UK) are in a comparatively privileged position when compared with those in other European Commission (EC) countries. Prior to 1973, migrants to the UK from the Commonwealth and colonies were virtually guaranteed formal citizenship rights in the civil, political, and social spheres. The concept of citizenship has long been associated with the issue of nationality and immigration control. The race and citizenship debate in Britain raises the question of the extent to which cultural differences should be reflected within the overall framework of contemporary citizenship. Currently, right across the EC, governments of all political persuasions are actively seeking new ways to close Europe's doors to refugees from non-EC countries. The British government has been an all-too-willing partner in the efforts to intensify the policing of displaced people seeking asylum in the UK.
