The Leader of Buckinghamshire Council has spoken after inaccurate reports on social media suggested buildings in the town could be used to house asylum seekers.
In an update to residents, Councillor Steven Broadbent said:
“Recent national developments regarding the use of hotels to accommodate asylum seekers have understandably prompted questions and concerns within our communities. I want to take this opportunity to provide some clarity and reassurance.
There are no asylum hotels in Buckinghamshire, and the Home Office has confirmed that there are no plans to establish any new facilities. However, like all counties across England, we are legally required to take a number of asylum seekers. We currently have a small number of people, mainly families, living in Buckinghamshire who are seeking asylum. None of them live in hotels.
When the Home Office proposes placing any asylum seekers in the county, the council is consulted, and we work with partners including the NHS, police, community safety and school admissions to understand the impact of any proposed placement. The relevant local ward councillors are part of that consultation.
We recognise that Buckinghamshire residents have shown huge compassion and generosity to those in need, for example hosting Ukrainian guests in their homes, and to Afghan families who have moved countries following brave support of UK and allied forces.
We also recognise that news from other parts of the country and misinformation about what is happening in Buckinghamshire can cause unnecessary concerns for people. We will provide relevant information when necessary to ensure rumours do not persist. For example, there have been rumours about the QD building in Aylesbury. The Home Office has confirmed that this property is not in the pipeline to be used and that they (the Home Office) have not approached or been approached by anyone about using it for this purpose”.
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