More than 900 small boat migrants have arrived in the UK in just three days, as Prime Minister Andy Burnham insists wealthier areas should take in more asylum seekers.
Burnham's call for fairness
Speaking on Tuesday (August 11), Mr Burnham said: "We cannot have a situation where it's only the poorest communities in the country that receive all of the dispersal of refugees and asylum seekers." He added: "I do believe all parts of the country need to work, to play their part."
His comments came in response to protests in the village of Piddington, Oxfordshire, over plans to house asylum seekers at a nearby former military base.
Rising arrivals
Home Office figures show 911 people have crossed the Channel in the last three days, including 230 in a single boat on Monday. A total of 3,003 migrants have arrived since Mr Burnham became Prime Minister 22 days ago.
Political reaction
Shadow home secretary Chris Philp rejected the proposal, saying: "We shouldn't be housing illegal immigrants anywhere – wealthy or not."
Mr Burnham said he would "listen to what people are saying" and address "legitimate concerns", adding: "I will look into the issues raised by the good people of Piddington."
