The Milton Keynes South MP, Iain Stewart, has welcomed the Government announcement of £5 million in funding for councils such as Milton Keynes Council to support the refugees they are taking in from Afghanistan.
Following recent events in Afghanistan the British Government is establishing a new route for Afghan citizens - prioritising women and girls - who have been forced to flee their home or face threats of persecution from the Taliban to set up home in the UK permanently.
The Afghan LES (Locally Employed Staff) Housing Costs Fund will provide a top up to help councils meet the costs of renting properties for those that need it, including larger homes for families. This will help give councils the security to make a firm offer of support to take people into their communities and help them build a new life.
Iain Stewart, the MP for Milton Keynes South, commented:
“The current situation in Afghanistan has been heartbreaking to watch unfold, with citizens fleeing for their lives.
"That is why I am pleased this Government is supporting those looking to flee from danger and welcoming them with open arms.
"The funding from the Government to councils to help resettle some Afghan refugees means we can do our small part to help those seeking safe refuge.
"I want to put on record my thanks to our Armed Forces and the UK Embassy workers who are working around the clock to make this all possible."
The Government will also offer all those who have fled Afghanistan a first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine on their arrival into the UK and will be issued with a vaccine card.
Alongside taking in refugees the Government is calling for a virtual G7 leaders’ summit to ensure a coordinated international response to the crisis and an emergency NATO and UN Security Council meetings to ensure every diplomatic lever is used.
To provide protection and support to evacuating British Nationals and Afghan staff 900 troops and civilian personnel have been deployed and British nationals will be helped to return to the UK with an FCDO rapid deployment team specifically trained to deal with crisis situations.