The decision to offer temporary accommodation to Afghan refugees at a hotel in Exmouth is undoubtedly the right one. We owe these people a debt of gratitude as many will have assisted UK forces in Afghanistan. Their lives and those of their families would have been significantly at risk had they remained in the country, which is why the UK government flew them out of Kabul.
The Afghan refugees arrived in Exmouth having quarantined for 10 days as required by Covid-19 travel rules from the country. 15 families including young children will be staying at the hotel for up to 12 weeks.
The Home Office have told me that they are making every effort to find them permanent and long-term accommodation, which could be anywhere in the country. 60 hotels in the UK are being used by the government for this reason while long-term accommodation is found.
I hope they enjoy their stay in Exmouth and I’m heartened by the response from people in the town which amply demonstrates the kindness and compassion in our community.
Read more on Devon Live here: https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/mp-simon-jupp-says-housing-59…