REDDITCH Labour, Redditch Liberal Democrats and Bromsgrove and Redditch Green Party have spoken with one voice over the Afghan refugee crisis.
In a joint statement they called on the UK government to act as a global power and take responsibility for its fair share of refugees.
They said: “Thousands of Afghans have worked to change the futures of their families and fellow citizens, supporting our forces with bravery in the face of terror.
“They deserve a safe haven from what is to come after our departure. We believe the resettlement programme should be accelerated, to help these people as quickly as possible.
“We need to act quickly to ensure vulnerable people are not trapped without access to the programme. Young Afghans have never known life under the Taliban and will be rightly fearful of the road ahead.
“The situation in Afghanistan leaves particular elements of the population at serious risk of harm, such as women, and those from the LGBT community.”
They added that Redditch has a history of welcoming those fleeing war and oppression, is a multicultural community and would welcome the opportunity to assist refugees.
“Redditch has already proven itself as a place where refugees can settle and find friendship and community.
“It is right that we open our doors and hearts to those most severely affected by the Taliban.”
