Time for some straight talking (From Barry And District News)

Time for some straight talking

THE Home Office must ditch "mixed messages" and give firm answers on whether 750 asylum seekers will be housed at Sully Hospital.

This is the view of two of the Vale's politicians, Cllr Anthony Ernest, Vale Councillor for Sully, and the Vale's Plaid Cymru spokesman Cllr Chris Williams.

Cllr Ernest has received a letter from Lord Jeff Rooker, Minister of State at the Home Office, following his representations against the proposal. Lord Rooker said: "We intend to build four trial accommodation centres, and have, so far, identified eight sites, including Sully.

"Their identification at this stage does not automatically mean that they will be used."

He added: "Housing asylum seekers in accommodation centres would bring the UK into line with most other EU countries."

He said asylum seekers would have a range of on-site purposeful activities to keep them occupied.

But Cllr Ernest said: "I am getting mixed messages as to the government's true position, which is debatable, to say the least."

He added: "I intend maintaining the pressure, with the active support of all my constituents, to see that this misguided scheme bites the dust faster than a government spin doctor."

Cllr Williams said: "The council has not been advised that this crazy project has been quashed. In fact the planning office has received advice from planning consultants working for the government which indicates that technical evaluations are still taking place.

"It is intolerable to have to rely on hints and reports of private discussions with the local MP John Smith. The public should not have to reply on second hand information.

"All in all the Home Office is showing incredible contempt for the residents of Sully and indeed the whole of the Vale. It is time for answers from the minister."