FLAGS of St George have appeared on roundabouts and zebra crossings in and around Salisbury.

Unfortunately, this symbol of patriotism has been requisitioned by the far right in their attempt to stir up anti-migrant sentiment.

I have noticed a distinct increase in racist abuse in Salisbury. It seems those harbouring anti-migrant sentiment are feeling more emboldened to express their views.

On Mill Road, next to Fisherton Island(Image: Newsquest)

What they fail to realise is that migrant labour is key to keeping many sectors operational in Salisbury, such as medical and dental health, social care, leisure, retail and science and technology.

The real cause of anti-migrant sentiment is, I suspect, due to austerity, inflation, a lack of affordable housing, a shortage of schools, NHS services and a general lack of affordable public services.

So, why are these protestors not taking up their complaints with their local and national governments instead?

They could, for example, argue their case for greater spending in the public sector by the government.

They could learn about how our government is different to households and can create money to fund fully resourced public service projects.

These projects could build more houses, schools, hospitals: the list goes on.

Read more

Painting the St George’s cross on Salisbury roundabouts ‘constitutes vandalism’
Letter: What does St George’s flag represent beyond support for sporting teams?

Did you notice the word ‘resourced’ projects ? Yes, that’s right. Our country needs resources to deliver all this great work.

How do we find suitable skilled and qualified resources when they’re not homegrown ? That’s right, from abroad.

Our country needs migrants if we are to develop and become a better land for us all.

Jabeen Wise
Address supplied

Send letters by email to newsdesk@salisburyjournal.co.uk or by post to Editor, Salisbury Journal, Suite B (Ground Floor), Milford House, Milford Street, Salisbury, SP1 2BP.

All letters and e-mails must include full names and addresses (anonymous letters will not be published), although these details may be withheld from publication, on request, if the reason justifies it.

Letters of 300 words or less will be given priority, although all are subject to editing for reasons of clarity, space, or legal requirements. We reserve the right to edit letters.