COLUMN: Harriett Baldwin MP writes for The Observer - The Malvern Observer

COLUMN: Harriett Baldwin MP writes for The Observer

Malvern Editorial 9th Sep, 2015 Updated: 20th Oct, 2016   0

I COULD not believe the front page of last week’s Malvern Observer. Malvern is one of the nicest places on the planet for people of all ages to live.

In a week when people are risking their lives to escape violence at the hands of IS forces in the Middle East, and some have paid the ultimate price, we must all be thankful we live here.

As far as refugees and asylum seekers are concerned, it is worth summarising what the Government has done so far.

It has already committed £900 million of international aid budget to help refugees, more than the rest of Europe put together and this week announced an extra £100 million, this week.




The Syrian Vulnerable Person Scheme was launched last year and the Government has given amnesty to more than 5,000 Syrians.

The Prime Minister has now announced plans to resettle a further 20,000 people – with more details next week.


Our Navy has also been active carrying out a humanitarian mission in the Mediterranean and helping to save lives.

We must also focus on preventing the criminal gangs transporting people illegally towards Europe.

We have this week offered to take more people fleeing the war-torn region to reduce pressures on Turkey, Jordan. Hungary, Italy and Greece.

Here in Malvern, many local people have written to me to discuss this issue and it has been discussed by local councillors too. We are all working to try and find a way that will allow local people to help out.

There are some hurdles that do need to be overcome. Any vulnerable Syrian person, who, for example, may have been the victim of serious sexual assault or extreme violence or is an orphan will have complex, long-term needs from our social services and healthcare system.

At present, the re-settlement budget only extends to one year so this needs to be addressed before our councils can agree to offer help to such victims.

Also, the current scheme only allows for the use of scarce social housing while there may be individuals locally who might want to offer their homes.

These complex problems need to be considered. The UK has always been proud to offer freedom and security to genuine asylum seekers.

I will continue to work with local authorities and the Home Office to see how big-hearted local people can best offer the hand of friendship to those in most need, fleeing the horrors of war.

Printing

We can provide all of your printing needs at competitive rates.

Buy Photos

Buy photos online from the Malvern Observer newspaper.

Online Editions

Catch up on your local news by reading our e-editions on the Malvern Observer.

Recruitment

Find a career you'll love with our free career finder website.