Although a spokesperson pointed out the town hall has not supported raids “for many years” anyway, reports Nick Clark, Local Democracy Reporter

A sign saying "Welcome to Newham" — ‘Welcome to Newham’ sign

Council resources shouldn’t be used to support immigration raids, Newham councillors have agreed unanimously.

Councillors voted at a meeting on Monday (5th) that the town hall should only co-operate with raids “where there is a clear legal obligation to do so”.

A council spokesperson told the Local Democracy Reporting Service it had not supported raids “for many years”.

Members of the Newham Independents Party proposed that the council refuses to take part in immigration raids at the meeting on Monday.

They said raids can deter people from accessing public services or seeking help when they are exploited.

Their proposal said: “Newham is one of the most diverse boroughs in the country and has a proud history of welcoming people who have come to the borough seeking safety, opportunity and a better life.

“The council has a responsibility to ensure that its own resources, information and services are used to support the safety and wellbeing of Newham residents and are not unnecessarily used to facilitate immigration enforcement.”

The proposal said the council should not “actively assist” immigration raids with its staff, buildings or equipment.

It also said that council staff should not “act as immigration enforcement officers” so that people can use services without fear of being reported.

Labour, Newham Independent and Green councillors voted to support the proposal unanimously.

However, a council spokesperson said this was “unnecessary” because “Newham Council does not, and has not for many years, supported immigration raids by the Home Office or any other agency”.

The motion comes after councillors backed Labour proposals for Newham to be a “borough of sanctuary” in both 2023 and 2025.

This means it should aim to make the borough a safe and welcoming place for refugees and asylum seekers.

It also comes after a survey of borough residents last year, by think-tank British Future, found the majority of people in Newham found its diversity to be “an asset to the area”.

A council spokesperson said: “Newham is proud to be a member of the Borough of Sanctuary network of local authorities which promises to offer welcome and support to refugees, asylum seekers and other people seeking sanctuary.

“We ensure this vulnerable group can access services, support and protection.”

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