Ahead of threatened demonstrations this weekend outside hotels housing asylum seekers in Devon, leader of the Green group of councillors in Exeter, Diana Moore, said:
“The protests we are seeing outside hotels housing asylum seekers and in our communities are unacceptable. These protests are the result of the deliberate spread of myths and lies about asylum seekers and refugees, which are being stoked for divisive political purposes.
“Here’s a reality check. A couple of years ago I visited some asylum seekers who were placed for a short time in a local hotel. They were from Afghanistan and had bravely worked alongside UK soldiers in the war there. Facing very real danger to their lives in their home country when the Taliban regained control, they were – as was their legal right – seeking asylum in the UK. Now in a safe place, they missed home, but were grateful for the welcome and support they received.
“The Green Party stands in solidarity with all such people who are seeking safety from a threat to their life, freedom or other serious human rights violations.
“Our political leaders must show moral backbone and stand firm against the divisive demands of the far right on asylum which will only foster racism, Islamophobia and suspicion in our communities.
“We must remember our shared humanity. Those coming to this country to flee violence include mothers with their children, as well as people of all ages who have endured unimaginable trauma. We have a duty to offer compassion and sanctuary, not fear and intimidation.
“We also need safe and legal routes for people to arrive in this country. The Government must ensure a fair and humane system for those seeking asylum.
“Exeter has long been a City of Sanctuary welcoming asylum seekers and refugees. We should all feel proud that refugees have made their home here. We want them to feel safe, part of our community, and welcome.