The letter, sent on Tuesday, 20 June, identifies that local government has a proud history of welcoming and supporting refugees, and Ealing is no exception.
Councillor Mason and Councillor Knewstub wrote: "We work hard to provide a safe haven for people fleeing violence and persecution, and to enable them to actively participate in our communities, but it often feels that we do not have a true partner in central Government. There are significant problems with the national asylum system that affect people in Ealing including a record backlog of cases awaiting a decision, a de facto ban on working, and enforced poverty and homelessness. All of these make it more difficult for us to provide refugees and asylum seekers with a warm welcome."
They implore the Home Secretary to act now and withdraw the Migration Bill, repeal the Nationality and Borders Act and work with local authorities and communities to put in place an asylum system that supports and enables people seeking safety to rebuild their lives and encourages communities to welcome them.
They go on to identify that Ealing is working towards becoming a recognised Borough of Sanctuary, where people seeking sanctuary feel welcomed, included and empowered.