Prime Minister Rishi Sunak Discusses RAF Scampton and Illegal Migration
On a visit to a Lincolnshire school, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak addressed concerns regarding RAF Scampton and the issue of illegal migration. He paid a visit to Giles Academy in Boston on Wednesday, November 8 with the intention of discussing the dangers of smoking and taking questions from students.
RAF Scampton: An Asylum Seeker Home?
RAF Scampton, a historical site formerly serving as the Dambuster’s home, may soon become a refuge for 2,000 asylum seekers should Home Office plans progress. These plans jeopardise a £300 million investment deal drawn up for the site. Leaders from the West Lindsey District Council are currently awaiting the ruling from a High Court judge after they made claims that the government's intent to use the land should be nullified on grounds of unlawfulness.
Controversy at RAF Scampton
The Home Office has proceeded with work at RAF Scampton even though a judicial review process is ongoing and the council has issued a stop notice. When asked about the continued Home Office activities at RAF Scampton and what the Prime Minister would say to inhabitants worried about future changes in their village, Mr Sunak responded:
"I know this is a difficult issue but there is a process that the Home Office is working through and engaging with local stakeholders on...I know the people of Lincolnshire, like everywhere else in the country, are very keen to see the government tackle illegal migration...We also have to end this ridiculous situation where we're spending taxpayers' money, in Lincolnshire and everywhere else, at £5.5 million a day housing illegal migrants in hotels".
Pending £300 Million Deal
Earlier this year, a crucial deal was agreed between West Lindsey District Council and the Ministry of Defence, agreeing to transfer ownership of RAF Scampton to Scampton Holdings Limited. This deal was set to inject £300 million into the former airbase to regenerate, preserve, protect, and enhance it through the provision of aviation heritage, business, aerospace, space and aviation technology, and education opportunities. This significant investment is now under threat due to the Home Office's potential plans for an asylum centre at the historic site.
The court will decide upon the lawfulness of the government's plans, as claimed by the council, in the coming weeks.