Statements from Cornwall Council about asylum seekers

Steve Double MP made a statement on Monday 7 November on Home Office use of hotel in Newquay

“We all know that one of the biggest challenges facing our country at the moment is the number of migrants and asylum seekers coming to the UK.”

“This was brought home to Cornwall over the weekend with confirmation that the Home Office is using a Newquay hotel to house a limited number of migrants and asylum seekers.”

“This is a national issue and each part of our country must do its bit to help.”
“Cornwall has a long and proud tradition of welcoming people seeking refuge, most recently with the commendable efforts made by our people and communities to help those displaced by Putin’s invasion of Ukraine via the Homes for Ukraine scheme.”

“However the move by the Home Office does raise a number of concerns. Over the last two days I have been in touch with Home Office Ministers, the Leader of Cornwall Council and local councillors, to ensure these people both get the support they need and that the Home Office takes steps to properly process them and take further action as required.”

“Firstly, I have made it clear that we expect the Home Office to process applications as quickly as possible to ensure those who are genuine refugees get the support they need and are able to move on to the next stage of their lives in the UK. Equally it is important that the Home Office identify those who are not refugees and that these people are repatriated to their own countries.”

“Secondly I have asked that resources be made available to Cornwall Council to ensure that while these additional people are living here, there is no impact on our already stretched local services.”

“Thirdly I have asked for a commitment from the Home Office that no hotel will be used in this capacity beyond the end of winter so as to not impact on our important tourist season.”

“I will continue to work with all involved to ensure that those who need our assistance get it in a prompt and timely manner while ensuring there is minimal impact on our local communities.”

Cornwall Council’s response to the news

“Cornwall Council is awaiting more details from the Home Office following its decision to use a Newquay hotel to temporarily house a limited number of migrants and asylum seekers.

Cornwall Council leader, Linda Taylor, said:

“Addressing the current migrant crisis is a huge challenge for the whole country. As a council we remain committed to playing our part and providing what support we can for those seeking refuge in the UK, as we continue to do with the Homes for Ukraine appeal, but I’m extremely disappointed that were not consulted before this decision was made.

“Our priority now is to work with Newquay town council, our local MPs and the Home Office to secure additional resources to ensure that the impact on local communities is kept to a minimum.”