Adrian Ramsay MP statement on the Park hotel, Diss,

What happened in Diss last night was wrong. Groups from outside our community came here to create fear and division. That is not who we are. Diss is a town rooted in compassion and decency. We have a long and proud history of offering sanctuary to those fleeing persecution. People have a right to seek asylum in our country, and they deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, as we would wish to be treated in times of crisis. 

We have had an asylum hotel in Diss for two years without any issues. The families staying there have become part of the local community, with many of their children attending local schools. However, late last week we were informed that these families would be told to leave the hotel at short notice. I am frustrated by the lack of communication from the Home Office to the families and to me as constituency MP, and I have raised my concerns with the Minister. 

We must reject division and focus on what unites us. I will keep raising questions with the Home Office and work with the town and district councils and local community groups to ensure everyone is treated with respect. Together, we will welcome new arrivals and show what I know Diss to be: a compassionate and inclusive town that helps everyone feel part of our community.