Cost Concerns, Community Impact, and Calls for Change

Labour Under Fire for Continued Use of Hotels for Asylum Seekers

Labour is facing criticism for its continued use of hotels to house asylum seekers, despite pledges to end the practice. The cost to taxpayers is significant, and the impact on local communities is causing concern.

MPs are set to vent their frustration in a special debate this week, focusing on hotels that have reopened as "asylum hotels" after returning to normal use. One such example is the Manor Hotel in Datchet, which was suddenly converted to house asylum seekers without prior notice to the community.

Local MP Jack Rankin has secured a debate on the issue, highlighting the concerns of his constituents who are "desperate for answers" about the hotel's future. He criticizes Labour for failing to deliver on its promise to end the use of hotels for asylum seekers, while also opening more such facilities.

Rankin also points to the closure of the Manor Hotel to the public, which has negatively impacted the local tourism industry. He emphasizes the need for a "revolution in social housing" to address the housing crisis and provide safe and secure homes for everyone, including asylum seekers.

The Home Office acknowledges the pressure on the immigration system and remains committed to ending the use of hotels for asylum seekers. However, they also emphasize the need to return failed asylum seekers to their home countries.

The debate promises to be heated, with Labour facing scrutiny for its handling of the asylum seeker issue. The impact on local communities and the cost to taxpayers are key concerns that need to be addressed.