Wirral Council is scheduled to hold a significant debate on its policies regarding asylum seekers during a full council meeting on October 13. The discussion follows community tensions and protests over the Home Office's use of a former hotel in Hoylake to accommodate individuals seeking asylum.
Two distinct motions have been submitted by the Conservative and Green parties, proposing different approaches for the council to adopt. The debate will also address other local issues, including motions on the Hillsborough Law and fuel poverty.
Key Takeaways
- Wirral Council will debate its approach to asylum seekers on October 13 following the use of a Hoylake hotel for accommodation.
- The Conservative Party has proposed a motion urging the government to halt the use of hotels and improve local consultation.
- The Green Party is calling for the council to fulfill its 2021 pledge to become a recognized 'Borough of Sanctuary'.
- Data shows 1,290 people are currently seeking asylum in Wirral, representing 0.39% of the borough's population.
- Other motions on the Hillsborough Law and fuel poverty will also be discussed at the meeting.
Background of the Hoylake Hotel Situation
The upcoming council debate has been prompted by the use of the former Holiday Inn Express in Hoylake to house male asylum seekers. This decision has led to protests and significant discussion within the local community.
Previously, the hotel was used to accommodate families, but the recent change in use has heightened local concerns. Wirral Council has been actively reviewing the situation, including whether planning permission is required for the hotel to continue operating as accommodation for asylum seekers. Some councillors have suggested the possibility of pursuing legal action.
The leader of Wirral Council's Labour group, Cllr Paula Basnett, has publicly addressed the issue. She noted that residents "have expressed clear opposition" to the current arrangement and has called on the government to listen to these concerns "as a matter of urgency."
Conflicting Proposals from Political Parties
The council meeting will feature two competing motions that highlight the different perspectives on how Wirral should proceed. These proposals from the Conservative and Green parties set the stage for a detailed and potentially contentious debate.
Conservatives Call for Consultation and End to Hotel Use
A motion put forward by Conservative leader Cllr Jeff Green and Cllr Max Booth acknowledges the UK's "proud history of welcoming those fleeing war and terror," referencing the support provided to Ukrainian refugees.
However, their motion expresses concern over the use of local hotels for long-term accommodation, arguing that such decisions are made without adequate consultation with local communities. They are calling for a formal process that involves local authorities before any such placements are made.
The Conservatives' proposal requests that all councillors support Cllr Basnett in writing a formal letter to the government. This letter would outline the council's collective concerns about using hotels for "single, male, migrant accommodation" and demand full consultation on any future decisions.
"The opposition party also said they welcomed comments by Cllr Basnett calling on the Home Office to change course... and to request full consultation with this council on any future decisions."
Additionally, they are seeking official clarification on the legal requirement for planning permission in these circumstances.
Greens Advocate for 'Borough of Sanctuary' Status
In contrast, the Green Party's motion focuses on a pledge the council made in 2021 to join a national network and become a recognized 'Borough of Sanctuary'. They argue that this commitment has not yet been fully delivered.
Asylum Seekers in Wirral: The Numbers
- Total Seeking Asylum: 1,290 people
- Percentage of Population: 0.39%
- Afghan Settlement Scheme: 43 people
- From Ukraine: 530 people
- In Supported Accommodation: 717 people
The Greens emphasize the positive contributions of those seeking refuge, stating they "bring skills, experience, and perspectives that enrich Wirral." Their motion seeks to reaffirm the council's commitment to "compassion, fairness, and respect."
The motion also praises the extensive work done by local community organizations, charities, and faith groups, recognizing their efforts as part of Wirral's heritage as a welcoming place. To ensure progress, the Greens are requesting that a formal report be presented to councillors within six months, detailing immediate and long-term actions to achieve 'Borough of Sanctuary' status.
Other Important Issues on the Council Agenda
Beyond the debate on asylum seekers, Wirral councillors will also address other significant local and national issues during the October 13 meeting. Two additional motions have been put forward by the Labour and Liberal Democrat parties.
What is the Hillsborough Law?
The Hillsborough Law, officially known as the Public Advocate Bill, is proposed legislation aimed at creating a 'duty of candour' for public officials during all forms of public inquiry and criminal investigation. It seeks to prevent the institutional defensiveness and cover-ups that plagued the aftermath of the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, ensuring families of victims have access to publicly funded legal representation and a level playing field in their pursuit of justice.
Support for the Hillsborough Law
Council leader Cllr Paula Basnett and her deputy, Cllr Julie McManus, have submitted a motion on behalf of the Labour Party. They are calling for the council to formally support the Hillsborough Law, which has been introduced in Parliament.
The motion states that the principles of the law are "essential not only to the legacy of those who lost their lives at Hillsborough, but also to restoring and protecting trust between communities and public institutions." They are urging the central government to pass the legislation without further delay.
Addressing Fuel Poverty Among the Terminally Ill
The Liberal Democrats have introduced a motion to address the issue of poverty, particularly among those in their final year of life. Citing research from the charity Marie Curie, they highlight a concerning statistic.
According to the research, an estimated 22% of people in Wirral are dying in fuel poverty. The motion criticizes this situation and will likely call for local action or support for initiatives aimed at helping the most vulnerable residents manage their energy costs.