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A Danish government proposal to seize the assets of asylum-seekers to make them pay for their keep has drawn sharp criticism from around the world.

The Danish Integration Minister, Inger Stoejberg, said police should be allowed to seize valuable personal items from refugees to make them pay for housing, healthcare and some education costs. But Ms Stoejberg said wedding rings, watches or items "with a sentimental value" should not be taken.

The proposed law would only apply to items worth more than $430 and "tangible assets of a considerable value".

Martin Henriksen is a member of the Danish parliament and the spokesman on integration for the Danish People Party. He told Weekend's Ellen Otzen why he supported the plan.

(Photo: Migrants wait for a train to Denmark at a railway station in northern Germany. Credit: Carsten Rehder/Getty)