Expanded Migrant Population at RAF Base Sparks Controversy; Starmer Faces Accusations of Broken Promises on Immigration
In a recent development, the Home Office has confirmed an increase in the number of asylum seekers housed at MDP Wethersfield, a former RAF base, from 800 to 1,245. This represents a more than 50% increase in capacity, according to official government documents or announcements.
The increase at MDP Wethersfield comes amidst a broader trend of accommodating asylum seekers across the UK. The Home Office is currently placing more than 32,000 asylum seekers in hotels and another 66,000 in dispersal accommodation such as bedsits and multi-occupancy homes.
The decision to expand the accommodation at MDP Wethersfield has been met with criticism, particularly from the opposition. Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, and Sir James Cleverly, the former Home Secretary and shadow housing and communities secretary, have both condemned the increase in numbers at the site.
This development is particularly noteworthy given Keir Starmer's promises during the general election last year. Starmer had pledged to end the practice of housing asylum seekers in disused military sites like MDP Wethersfield. However, the Home Office states that the numbers at MDP Wethersfield will be reduced back to 800 "as soon as possible thereafter."
Starmer's leadership is being criticized for its handling of immigration and border control, with the column "Keir Starmer's Open Borders Hypocrisy" being a notable example. Critics argue that Starmer and Labour have a history of weakening Britain's ability to defend her borders. They point to instances where Labour has opposed policies aimed at deterring illegal immigration or deporting those who have no right to be in the UK.
In a separate issue, the numbers supporting Keir Starmer's defense spending promise are looking increasingly dubious. Starmer had promised to increase defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2030. However, taking inflation into account, it might not meet its intended goal.
As the number of migrants crossing the Channel continues to rise, with nearly 4,500 migrants crossing the Channel so far in July alone, pushing the total for 2022 to more than 24,000, the debate over immigration and border control is set to continue.
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