Resettlement of refugees from Afghanistan

We are writing to ask Southampton City Council to urgently make provisions for the resettlement of refugees from Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover of the country.

The United Kingdom has a responsibility to ensure the safety of the thousands of people in Afghanistan who have helped the British Armed Forces over the last 20 years who are now at great risk following the withdrawal of British and American troops.

We should also take steps to ensure that women and girls in Afghanistan are offered protection in the UK. Over the past 20 years, women and girls have been able to access education and speak out against oppression in Afghanistan. They are now particularly at risk with reports of girls being removed from schools across the country, and female journalists being targeted by the Taliban.

Southampton has a proud history of providing sanctuary to those fleeing persecution. Southampton Liberal Democrats believe that our city should continue in this tradition and do our part to protect our allies in Afghanistan. We are asking you to make urgent contact with the Government to offer the support of Southampton City Council in providing asylum for as many refugees as is practical in our city.

We look forward to receiving your reply, and for Southampton City Council to do all it can to limit the extent of this humanitarian crisis.

Kind regards,

Lib Dem campaigner Josh Smith has launched a petition calling on Conservative run Southampton City Council to reverse their plans to remove the pedestrianisation on Bedford Place. Over 1250 people have signed so far.

Josh says: "Southampton Liberal Democrats believe that the council should be protecting and improving this community space, not removing it. If you agree please sign our petition opposing these changes."

Since launching, this scheme has been popular with local residents and businesses alike.

In a poll on the Daily Echo website, 63% of voters said it would be a mistake to reopen it to motor traffic. Now Southampton Conservatives have gained control of the council, this popular scheme is under threat.

The Daily Echo has also covered our petition, the article can be found HERE.

If you agree that this community space should be improved and made permanent, not ripped out against the clear interests of local people, then please sign our petition so we can keep up the pressure against these proposed changes.

Don't forget to sign the petition online at: https://www.southampton-libdems.org.uk/bedford 

On Thursday 6th May 2021, the residents of Southampton have the opportunity to choose new representatives for their local area on Southampton City Council. 16 new Councillors will be selected, who will have a say over how local budgets are spent on education, transport, social care, arts and culture, housing, our high streets and more.

Southampton Liberal Democrats are standing on a broad platform to make Southampton a greener, fairer and safer City.