Devon Councillor Faces Backlash Over Controversial Immigration Motion

A heated debate on immigration erupted at Teignbridge Council in Devon, where councillor Stephen Horner introduced a controversial motion advocating for “safeguards” on asylum seekers. The motion failed dramatically, with 34 councillors voting against it, including the very councillor who seconded it. Horner, the only member of the Reform party on the council, expressed no regrets about sparking the discussion, emphasizing the importance of addressing concerns that residents feel they cannot voice.

Protests outside Forde House, where the meeting was held, set the stage for the contentious debate. Demonstrators voiced strong opposition to Horner’s motion, with one protester comparing the situation to Nazi Germany. Council members from various parties, including the Liberal Democrats, Conservatives, and Independents, labeled the proposal as “political posturing” that contradicted British values.

Horner defended his motion, stating, “It went exactly as I thought it would. It was important to get the debate out into the public domain.” He criticized the prevailing attitude towards immigration, arguing that ignoring the issue only fuels public anger. Despite the overwhelming rejection of his proposal, he indicated he would continue to monitor immigration-related concerns.

Support for immigrants shone through in the council chamber, where attendees applauded councillors who opposed Horner’s motion. A subsequent motion highlighting the positive contributions of immigrants to the community received widespread support. Protester Virginia Turbett articulated a perspective that resonated with many, stating, “We’re a country built on immigration.” She highlighted the personal nature of immigration, sharing her own family’s experiences.

Turbett challenged the negative narratives surrounding immigration, asserting that they distract from more pressing economic issues. “It’s simply a diversion from the real issues, which are the asset-stripping of the British economy by the top one percent,” she said. Her remarks underscored a growing sentiment among many residents that immigrants are an integral part of society, deserving of respect and support.

The contrast between Horner’s motion and the supportive voices of the community reflects a broader conversation about immigration in the UK. As this issue continues to polarize public opinion, the council’s meeting serves as a microcosm of the national debate, illustrating the complexity and emotional charge surrounding immigration policy in contemporary Britain.