Refugees are victims of a hostile Tory Party
By Paul Sweeney – Scottish Labour MP for Glasgow North East and Shadow Scotland Minister THERE’S a striking culture clash when it comes to Glasgow and its refugee population but it’s not the one peddled by right-wing politicians and commentators. Because this conflict is not between “natives” and “settlers”.
It’s a fight between a big-hearted city with a reputation for facing down injustice and an uncaring Tory Government who have overplayed their “hostile environment” hand.
This week, with plans to turn refugees on to the streets, we have seen the latest manifestation of that alien Tory attitude – a twisted politics of envy against those in society who have least.
Of course, there will be those who say those whose applications for asylum have been refused should be packed on the first plane back from whence they came.
But the idea that people, who in many cases have risked life and limb to reach the safety of the UK fleeing horrendous disaster zones, can find that their key no longer opens their front door is a step too far.
I’m not prepared to let it happen on my doorstep.
This week, we welcome athletes to Glasgow from across the continent for the start of the European Championships and I’m proud that the spirit of direct action lives on in our great, radical city.
If Serco attempt to press on with this cruel approach, I know Glaswegians will unite against it.
The message from the people is loud and clear but the silence from the Tories is deafening.
We will not stand for it.