Brent Council debated the impact of illegal immigration on the borough, highlighting growing pressures on housing, primary care, and policing. The debate took place during a full council meeting on Monday, 15 September 2025, where councillors discussed a motion addressing the deterrence, integration, and accommodation impacts of illegal immigration on Brent.

The motion acknowledged that Brent is experiencing increased strain on its resources, partly due to the use of hotels for accommodating individuals arriving through irregular channels, such as by boat. Councillor Suresh Kansagra, Leader of the Conservative Group, introduced the motion, emphasising the need for open discussion and practical action to restore confidence among residents.

The motion stated that genuine refugees fleeing persecution deserve protection and swift, humane processing. It also asserted that the integrity of the asylum system must be upheld by deterring dangerous journeys and preventing abuse of legal channels.

Councillor Paul Lorber, Leader of the Liberal Democrats Group, opposed the motion, calling it provocative and misinformed. He clarified the legal protections afforded to asylum seekers under international conventions, stating that those seeking asylum should not be penalised for their illegal entry. He criticised successive Conservative governments for failing to properly manage the assessment processes for asylum claims.

Councillor Charlie Clinton spoke against the motion, linking anti-immigrant rhetoric to a rise in hate crimes. She argued that immigrants are not the cause of the country's struggles and contribute to the economy and culture.

Councillor Mili Patel, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources, responded to the debate, stating that the motion was based on a false premise and that the housing crisis was not caused by asylum seekers. She said that the Labour government is restoring order and humanity to the system with faster and fairer decisions.

The council resolved to:

  • Publish data on the number of hotels used for asylum accommodation in Brent and the impact on the housing waiting list once asylum seekers are granted leave to remain. The published report will include data on the number of hotels used for asylum accommodation in Brent and, once asylum seekers are granted leave to remain, the impact on the housing waiting list.
  • Secure monthly data from the Home Office and an exit plan for hotel use in Brent, including dates and milestones.

The motion was ultimately defeated. Councillor Ryan Hack, Mayor, urged councillors to remember the diverse nature of the borough and the peaceful relationships between communities when discussing the issue.

The full minutes of the meeting are available on the Brent Council website.