Politicians and celebrities on whether they will host Ukraine refugee families
15.03.2022 - 13:55
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
The government has officially launched its Homes for Ukraine scheme, which will see families across the UK host Ukrainians who have fled the country.
People who 'sponsor' a Ukrainian refugee will be offered a £350 a month 'thank you' payment.
Previously only Ukrainians with family members already settled in the UK could come. But under the new scheme, sponsors can provide a route for Ukrainians without family ties to come to the UK.
READ MORE: Homes for Ukraine website officially launches - everything we know about new refugee scheme
The UN’s refugee agency believes more than 2.8 million people have left Ukraine in search of safety.
As British householders are urged to throw open their doors to refugees, politicians and celebrities are being asked if they are willing to sign up to the government's new scheme.
Boris Johnson is unlikely to take any Ukrainian refugees into No 10, according to Downing Street.
The Prime Minister’s official spokesman indicated that Mr Johnson will not be taking part in the programme, but said it is up to individual ministers whether they offer a place to stay for those fleeing the war in eastern Europe.
Asked about Mr Johnson, who lives in the flat above No 11 Downing Street with his wife Carrie and two of his children, the PM’s spokesman said: “There are specific challenges around security on housing people in No 10."
The health secretary, Sajid Javid, said he was considering whether he was able to host Ukrainian refugees in his home.
Mr Javid, who said he has made a donation to the Disasters Emergency Committee appeal for Ukraine, told BBC Breakfast: “I’m starting to have a conversation with my wife on that and I think many households – as you say, and I’m pleased you brought this up –