Responding to the Home Secretary’s announcement of an expanded family visa scheme and humanitarian sponsorship pathway for people fleeing Ukraine, Liberal Democrat Home Affairs Spokesperson Alistair Carmichael MP said: “It is shameful that we are having to drag the Government inch by inch towards making a real commitment to the Ukrainians now fleeing Putin’s war machine.
“Even as the Russian missiles rain down and a huge convoy advances on Kyiv, the Home Secretary is still refusing to open a fast and simple refugee scheme for Ukrainian refugees. Worse, she is pressing ahead with her Anti-Refugee Bill that would criminalise any Ukrainians who come here to seek asylum.
“The Government should withdraw that Bill, and immediately establish a fast, safe route for Ukrainian refugees to come to the UK.
“Our country has a proud history of providing sanctuary to people fleeing war and persecution. We must not abandon Ukrainian refugees in their hour of need.”