Immigrant labour now seems an inevitable ramification of Western industrialised society. The affluent, techologically developed communities have been adept at divesting themselves of the more menial tasks in factory or home, but not so eager to cope with the problems thrown up bythe exitence of fa racial minority. Araya, a chilean emigrant in Germany, works as a driver's mate at the airport. His lfe, with his wife and two sons, seems secure until he receives news that his brother has been arrested in Chile by the Secret Police. Araya decidesto petition for his release, and begins collecting signatures.This political gesture condemns him. Accompanied by his elder son Lucho, he is taken for questioning by an examining committee and subjected to a humiliating investigation of his past. He loses his job, and attempts to rally support from his colleagues are rejected. They, too, are under pressure, incapable of action or commitment. The state of inertia and alienation seems total.