In a dramatic policy reversal, Labour leader Keir Starmer has scrapped plans to house 445 asylum seekers at two RAF bases following intense local opposition and political backlash.
The controversial proposal, which would have seen RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire and RAF Wethersfield in Essex converted into accommodation centres, has been abandoned after months of protests from residents and Conservative MPs.
Why the sudden change of heart?
Sources close to the Labour leadership suggest the party feared being seen as 'soft on immigration' ahead of the next general election. The U-turn comes just weeks after the plans were announced, leaving many questioning Starmer's consistency on immigration policy.
Local opposition proves decisive
Residents near both bases had launched legal challenges against the proposals, arguing they would overwhelm local services and damage heritage sites. At RAF Scampton, home of the famous Dambusters squadron during WWII, campaigners had particularly strong emotional arguments against the plans.
The government's response: While welcoming the decision, Conservative ministers have accused Starmer of 'flip-flopping' on a crucial policy issue. Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick stated: 'This shows Labour still doesn't have a coherent plan to tackle illegal immigration.'
What happens now?
With the RAF base plans shelved, questions remain about where the hundreds of asylum seekers will be accommodated instead. The Home Office is reportedly considering alternative sites, but with local opposition likely wherever they propose, finding solutions won't be easy.
This development comes as the UK continues to grapple with record numbers of Channel crossings and a backlog of asylum cases. The political battle over immigration policy looks set to intensify as election campaigning begins in earnest.
