More must be done to offer Syrian refugees safe haven, says The Green Party.
Home Secretary Theresa May’s statement today (January 29) outlined the introduction of "a new programme to provide emergency sanctuary in the UK for displaced Syrians who are particularly vulnerable." The move, which reverses previous indications that the Coalition government would not accommodate any more Syrian refugees, allows for 500 of the most vulnerable Syrian refugees to enter the UK.
In light of the sickening death toll and systematic use of torture and starvation, The Green Party welcomes the government’s small step to allow 500 of the most vulnerable to enter the UK.
Natalie Bennett, leader of the Green Party of England and Wales, said:
"The government's change of heart in agreeing to admit some of the most vulnerable refugees from Syria, albeit on a temporary basis, is to be welcomed.
“But serious questions remain. Primarily why aren't we signing up to the UNHCR programme? Why is the offer only for temporary resettlement and why are the numbers being discussed so tiny?
“Now the Government has accepted the principle that we should give some refugees a home in the UK, we need to keep pushing the Home Secretary to give more resettlement support to more people and in line with our ability to help and in concert with the UN."
“With the vote against military action, this marks a further step towards parliament taking a strong, cross-party stand when the government gets it wrong”, added Bennett.