Reform UK Proposes Migration Emergency Declaration in Kent
The Reform UK leadership of Kent County Council (KCC) is seeking to declare an "illegal migration emergency" within the county.
A motion is scheduled for debate at a full council meeting on Thursday, following the political group's assertion that Kent is at the forefront of a small boat "invasion" which is placing significant strain on public services and finances.
Opposition politicians have criticized the proposal, accusing the party of scaremongering.
The Home Office responded by stating it has implemented a "raft of tough new measures to make the UK a less attractive place for illegal migrants" and affirmed that it "would not stop until migration was under control again."
Details of the KCC Motion
The motion, put forward by Reform councillors David Wimble and Jeremy Eustace, highlights that migration is causing financial pressure on the county, as well as impacting culture, community cohesion, and crime levels.
It urges the leader of the council to demand that the government immediately halt the arrival of small boats, increase funding to cover associated costs, and advocate for enhanced support for the county's emergency services.
The party emphasized that expenses such as the care of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children up to the age of 25 are exerting a "huge strain" on Kent.
The motion states:
"Clearly, the Reform administration cannot take national-level action; however, until there is a change... the county will continue to suffer the consequences in a way that is disproportionate to the rest of the country."
Statements from KCC Leadership and Opposition
KCC leader Linden Kemkaran posted on X:
"Illegal small boat crossings are not a distant problem for Kent.
As Leader of Reform in KCC, I refuse to sit back and do nothing.
The people of Kent deserve councillors who will stand up to government on their behalf and speak truth to power."
Opposition parties have described the Reform motion as "fear mongering" and labeled the language used as "shameful."
Home Office Response
A Home Office spokesperson said:
"This government inherited a broken immigration system, and since coming into office we have stopped over 40,000 crossing attempts and removed or deported almost 60,000 people."
"The Home Secretary recently laid down new measures to revoke accommodation and support payments for many asylum seekers, alongside a raft of tough new measures to make the UK a less attractive place for illegal migrants.
We will not stop until migration is under control once again."
Additional Information
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