Issue - meetings

Purpose: to provide the Executive with further information to enable it to consider a motion relating to the plans to send asylum seekers to Rwanda for claims to be processed.

Resolved that Executive:

·       Write to the Government to request an end to the proposed offshoring of people seeking refuge to third countries and to demand an end to the deal with Rwanda, and

·       Offer support where we can to ensure that all refugees are treated with dignity and given the opportunity to make a positive contribution to the economy and cultural life of West Berkshire, and

·       Council be updated on the decision of the Executive.

This decision is eligible to be ‘called-in’.  However, if the decision has not been ‘called-in’ by 5.00pm on 22 December 2023, then it will be implemented.

Councillor Denise Gaines introduced and proposed a report (Agenda Item 14), noting that it provided the Executive with further information to enable it to consider a motion relating to the plans to send asylum seekers to Rwanda for claims to be processed. Councillor Gaines noted that it was a particularly live subject, and that the Government was still making regular announcements in relation to it.

Councillor David Marsh queried why it had taken so long to respond to the motion. Councillor Lee Dillon commented that the Executive had focused on all outstanding motions and petitions since taking control of the Council and that the backlog, with the exception of one had now been fully addressed. Councillor Dillon committed to respond to all future motions in a timely manner.

Councillor Marsh urged a more democratic approach to the receipt and processing of future motions. Councillor Dillon commented that Councillor Brooks would be re-establishing the Constitution Review Task Group which would look and review the matter but supported the concept of wider Council debates on motions.    

Councillor Carolyne Culver welcomed the compassionate respond to the motion.

Councillor Tony Vickers seconded the recommendations within the report.

RESOLVED that: Executive

·       Write to the Government to request an end to the proposed offshoring of people seeking refuge to third countries and to demand an end to the deal with Rwanda, and

·       Offer support where we can to ensure that all refugees are treated with dignity and given the opportunity to make a positive contribution to the economy and cultural life of West Berkshire, and

·       Council be updated on the decision of the Executive.