Lancashire County Council, led by Reform UK, has announced plans to withdraw from the government's refugee resettlement schemes, potentially becoming the first local authority to do so. Cabinet member Joshua Roberts said the move would redirect funds to support vulnerable residents and veterans in the county.
The council currently coordinates participation in the UK Resettlement Scheme and the Afghan Resettlement Programme on behalf of 14 unitary and district councils. Roberts argued that while the schemes are centrally funded, they strain local resources and the housing market. He stated: 'This proposal is about fairness. Reform UK was elected last May to make sure that the people who live, work and contribute to Lancashire are put at the front of the queue.'
Opposition councillors dismissed the plan as a 'political stunt' ahead of local elections. Labour's Azhar Ali noted that the government would simply find other councils to administer the schemes. Conservative leader Aidy Riggott and Green leader Gina Dowding also criticised the announcement, with Dowding calling it a 'publicity stunt' that would cut funding for refugees already in Lancashire.
Government statistics show 190,000 people were granted leave through safe and legal humanitarian routes in 2025, largely due to Ukraine scheme extensions. A council spokesperson confirmed that any policy change would require a cabinet decision.
Imran Hussain of the Refugee Council emphasised the importance of resettlement, saying: 'Resettlement is a lifeline for many refugees... We have a very proud tradition in the UK of giving people a safe journey out of countries devastated by war.' He added that research shows public support for helping refugees integrate.
