Resettlement of Child Refugees

“This Assembly regrets the Government’s decision to withdraw from its commitment to the Dubs Amendment. We are disappointed that only 350 unaccompanied children, of the 3,000 stipulated in the original amendment, have so far been resettled in the UK and we want the Government to reverse their decision and stand by the Dubs Amendment.

This Assembly notes the UK’s proud record of humanitarian response, and acknowledges the action that London councils has taken to house child refugees caused by the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East. We also note the continued willingness of London Boroughs to assist in the settlement of more child refugees.

This Assembly highlights the number of vulnerable, unaccompanied children in Calais, who are at risk of people trafficking and abuse. We also recognise that the UK has a moral duty to take in youngsters who have been forced to flee their homes.  The Assembly would like to see the Government to take in its fair share of child refugees. We call on the Mayor to make the strongest possible representations to the Government to secure a renewed commitment to settle 3,000 unaccompanied child refugees, enabling London to continue playing a vital role in resettling vulnerable children.”