Thurrock Council-Statement on refugees

Thurrock Council has been approached by several local groups and residents offering help, assistance and accommodation to Syrian refugees following comments from government ministers over the weekend. Over the years there have been Ugandan Asians, Vietnamese boat people, and people fleeing the horrors of Kosovo and the Balkans conflict more generally coming to Thurrock and being welcomed into the community. Thurrock Council's interim Chief Executive, David Bull, said on Monday (7 September): "Thurrock has a long and proud history of accepting refugees - people fleeing danger - and welcoming them into our community.  "I have no doubt, now the government has said our nation will provide help for thousands, that Thurrock will do its bit. "However, until the details of the government's proposals – including financial assistance – are available and fully analysed, it would be impossible to give accurate details of what the council can, or will be able to do.