Commentary published by the Mail on Sunday suggests a disconnect between the public pronouncements of some "new Left-wing elite" figures on immigration and their practical implications for communities. The argument posits that these individuals, often from comfortably situated, university-educated backgrounds, express support for admitting large numbers of economic migrants, whom they frequently term "asylum-seekers," while privately hoping that these migrants will not settle in their own affluent neighborhoods.
This perspective contends that while such figures advocate for generosity and open borders in principle, they are "being generous with other people's lives, schools and hospitals, transport, water, infrastructure and open space." The commentary highlights recent statements attributed to Prime Minister Burnham, who reportedly stated that more affluent areas must "play their part" in accepting migrants. This statement is framed as potentially upsetting to his own voters, who are described as largely on the political Left.
The piece also references the ongoing arrival of migrants in "vastly bigger boats" and plans to house large groups of migrants in former military bases, often near small villages, raising concerns among local inhabitants about the impact on their communities.
A poll conducted by Find Out Now, surveying 10,549 individuals, is cited to support the commentary's claims. According to the poll, a majority indicated that "asylum seekers" should be housed evenly across all areas, which the commentary interprets as a reluctance to have them nearby. Furthermore, 82 percent of respondents expressed that the government should increase efforts to stop illegal entry altogether, with only a small percentage disagreeing. A significant 57 percent stated that their own locality should not accept any more migrants.
The commentary suggests that Mr. Burnham should heed the majority sentiment for stricter border control and points to the Rwanda scheme as a potential solution, noting that Sir Keir Starmer's cancellation of it occurred as it showed signs of efficacy. The article also references a statement from the new Health Secretary, Yvette Cooper, who reportedly commented on the Labour party's past performance under Sir Keir's leadership, suggesting it "did not do government very well."