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Sir Edward Leigh backtracks on comments made about Ukrainian refugees

Sir Edward Leigh backtracks on comments made about Ukrainian refugees

Lincolnshire MP Sir Edward Leigh recently made controversial comments in the House of Commons regarding the UK taking in more Ukrainian refugees.

After Priti Patel announed the UK’s plans in the commons Sir Edward urged her to ” listen to all the humanitarian voices, to listen to the voices of people in Lincolnshire, who feel we’ve done our bit in terms of migration from eastern Europe. We’re under extreme pressure in terms of housing and jobs.”

He added “unlike the rest of Europe we have uniquely liberal labour laws and we speak English, so we are the country of choice for mass immigration.”

Now, the MP has attempted to backtrack on his comments, stating that his words were taken out of context.

Following major backlash from his constituents and the rest of the country he released a statement saying: “I reiterate my comments from last week that the Russian attack on Ukraine is a totally unprovoked and unjustified aggression, and the Government must be vigorous in the practical assistance it provides to Ukraine, which it has followed through on.

He added that the Home Office has been working “very hard over the course of recent weeks” in anticipation of an invasion, creating a “comprehensive package of support for those fleeing Ukraine.”

“Unfortunately my comments this week welcoming the Government’s generous offer to allow as many as 200,000 Ukrainian refugees into the United Kingdom seem to have been misinterpreted or taken out of context because I highlighted that Lincolnshire’s needs still require government attention,” he said.

People were quick to correct Sir Edward on what he said in the commons, with Deborah Meaden tweeting: “You made a mean minded speech about Lincolnshire being full which, I’m pleased to say, many on here found appalling and shameful. Don’t take us for fools.”

Many people were outraged with Sir Edwards initial comments made in the commons, stating that those fleeing Ukraine have gone through incredibly sad and difficult times and need support now more than ever.

The government recently faced backlash of its own due to its stance on taking in Ukrainian refugess. They have since changed the rules meaning that more than 200,000 refugees fleeing the conflict can enter the UK, and those with immediate family in Ukraine can bring them over to safety.

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Ellie joined Gi Media in July 2021.