News / Society
Ferguson refugee promise ‘still open’
George Ferguson says his offer to house refugees in his home above the Tobacco Factory is still open.
The city mayor made his offer on radio and television as the refugee crisis in Europe escalated in September.
On Monday he confirmed that a suitable candidate had not yet been found by the Bristol Hospitality Network, who find placements for those in need.
“The network are looking for somebody, they are going to find somebody,” Ferguson assured Bristol24/7.
Government ministers have said offers from thousands of people, including high-profile celebrities and politicians, to house refugees is not “the best way of dealing” with displaced families.
But Ferguson, who housed refugees from Uganda in the 1970s, said: “My experience has been a really good one and I think it does give people a stepping stone.”
He added: “My offer still stands. To be honest I don’t mind if it is anyone who is in desperate need of a home for any particular reason.
“It (the offer) was focused on encouraging people to help and it is just an example of what I do – lead by example, which is what I believe in.”
He added that the council is in talks with the Government about a “four or five” year package for taking in refugees.
Asked if Bristol as a City of Sanctuary should take more refugees proportionally, he said: “Numbers are still a bit ephemeral and I’m not going to be driven into putting a specific number because I think that becomes a political game.
“While I have ambition for Bristol to play its fair part, I think it is something I would involve the whole council in which is absolutely right.
“This is a community issue and I think it’s very important that the council gives leadership on this because there are reactionary forces and we need solidarity across the elected members to demonstrate that there is a willingness for Bristol to play its part as a city of sanctuary.”
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