UK’s response to Ukraine is shameful

NIGHT after night we see disturbing scenes of millions of terrified Ukrainians forced to flee from the horrors of Putin’s invading army. Woman, children and the elderly must set off alone, leaving their menfolk of fighting age to face the enemy.

Two and half million Ukrainians have already left their homes. They have been welcomed by their friendly neighbouring countries, notably Poland, which have seen the greatest movement of refugees since the Second War. The EU has waived visa rules in this dire emergency and are allowing refugees to stay in member states for one to three years with the temporary right to work, housing and healthcare.

Our own Government’s response to the crisis has been shameful. Fine words from Boris Johnson promising the UK will be “as generous as we can possible be” have not given rise to any effective action.

Sadly, Home Secretary Priti Patel’s response has been an inflexible and chaotic mess. She continues to demand that all applicants for entry into the UK must have a visa.

The first exhausted refugees to arrive at Calais were confronted with a notice instructing them to travel onwards to Paris or Brussels (both over 100 miles away) to register. Her management of the emergency has been appalling and she deserves the sack.

In the past few days, Michael Gove has announced a new ‘Homes for Ukraine’ plan. This is a sponsorship scheme by which Government will pay individuals £350 per month to offer a place in their own home to Ukrainian refugees, for a minimum of six months. Charities and other organisations can also apply to take part.

Visas will continue to be required and it remains to be clarified how exactly sponsors will be put in touch with the needy individual or family. It will be tragic if this is yet another example of plans which are only going to help a very limited number of millions of desperate people.

Labour leader Keir Starmer says Ukrainians need “a simple route to sanctuary”. We must all hope Boris Johnson and his ministers are listening. Jill Natusch Sidmouth, Devon