On September 3rd Birmingham Mail – the local paper pledged support to our campaign. This followed the huge wave of public support for refugees caught up in the Mediterranean crisis. The Editor, Marc Reeves said “Ours is a city built on generations of refugees from war, famine and persecution. They – we – make Birmingham the most vibrant and diverse city in the UK”.
He went on to suggest that the City could take 500 refugees and called on the Prime Minister “….to ensure Britain plays its part in Europe’s response. Moreover, we call on him to give this city the resources it needs to use its legacy and compassion to do its part to alleviate the suffering of thousands.”
On September 15th the City Council passed a resolution to take 50 Syrian refugees under the Syrian Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Programme. It was agreed unanimously with support and positive statements from all parties.