Many constituents have contacted me over the past week with their concerns over the UK government response to the Ukrainian refugee crisis and the unacceptable delays in the processing of documentation to enable people to enter the UK.
I fully agree that we should be welcoming and protecting refugees, the UK has always been a safe place for people fleeing war zones. I applaud and support the immense effort that neighbouring countries are making to welcome Ukrainians. I truly believe that Ukraine has a good chance of winning this war, and whilst we should absolutely welcome all refugees here, I am mindful that these people are leaving their homes and loved ones behind. By taking refuge in neighbouring countries, they remain close to Ukraine, and when this war is over they would need only to cross the border once more to return to the land they call home.
I can completely understand that the reportedly low number of processed visa applications seem frustrating, however it is important to understand that this is a new scheme and with all new schemes there are initial challenges. We have increased capacity at all our European application centres and this will help to speed up the application process. Priti Patel said in the House of Commons that it is important we are listening to what the Ukrainians actually want, and we are finding that most do not want a long-term settlement so far away from home. As of today (09/03/2022) Transport Secretary Grant Shapps confirmed that 760 visas have been granted out of approximately 22,000 applicants, There are two schemes now available for Ukrainians to enter the UK so it is envisaged that there will be a significant increase in the number of visas being granted over the coming days.