Refugees – statement from Keith Barrow, Leader of Shropshire Council

“Shropshire Council has yet to formally make decisions concerning refugees, yet the overwhelming response is that we should play our part to help whoever we can. Our hearts reach out to those affected by war and other atrocities. Shropshire communities are already looking to help, generously offering temporary accommodation and other support, including within their own homes.

“We will continue to work and collaborate with our communities and other local authorities in order to secure the best solutions and outcomes for refugees. David Simmonds has already spoken on behalf of the Local Government Association to say that Government should assist and fund refugees and we support this position.

“The Cabinet of Shropshire Council will discuss this important issue when they meet informally on Wednesday this week (9 September). We will also discuss at our next full Council Meeting held on 24 September. In the meantime we will put plans in place to take and support refugees in readiness for our Government to appropriately respond, fund and co-ordinate on behalf of the United Kingdom.”

Keith Barrow, Leader, Shropshire Council