As the horror unfolds in Ukraine, it is impossible to not be moved by the fight of the Ukrainian people, in the face of an aggressive neighbour led by a tyrant and a bully willing to do anything to achieve his goals.
The generosity of our nation is inspiring, with thousands of people willing to open their homes and their hearts.
“Many Syrian and Afghan refugees are still waiting for help. They deserve our support too, where is their resettlement scheme?”
Yet, I have become increasingly frustrated by the red tape and bureaucracy that people are facing as they offer support, and I am furious with parts of the press for their attempt to cover up the Government’s incompetence and blame local government for the delays.
We need less rhetoric and more action. Refugees Minister Lord Harrington needs to kick some backside.
There is a stark contrast between the Government’s response to this crisis and that facing Syrians and Afghans. Many refugees are still waiting for help. They deserve our support too, where is their resettlement scheme? They cannot be forgotten.
I want to use this opportunity to say thank you to those councillors who are stepping down from elected office this month – you have been inspirational in your work.
Thank you for standing up for liberal values in your communities, at a time those values are under threat.
And to those seeking re-election, I wish you the best of luck on 5 May. I look forward to welcoming even more Liberal Democrats to our ever-growing local government family.