Written question WQ83261
- Asked by
- Janet Finch-SaundersConservative
- To be answered by
- Minister for Social Justice
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 8 days
Question
What discussions has the Minister had with local authorities and housing associations in Wales about providing emergency housing for refugees fleeing Afghanistan?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Social Justice
We are working closely with local authorities, housing associations and other partners to identify suitable accommodation as quickly as possible for those who are fleeing Afghanistan.
The First Minister and I have met with partners across Wales to lead and coordinate our response to this crisis, and we will continue to do so. Officials joined a meeting with Community Housing Cymru and representatives from housing associations on 17th August which focused on facilitating join-up and helping to identify suitable accommodation.
All 22 Welsh local authorities have committed to accommodating families under the Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy (ARAP) scheme. Wales is a Nation of Sanctuary and the outpouring of offers of support is a fantastic demonstration of our Welsh values.
It is essential that the UK Government works with Welsh Government, the WLGA and local authorities to ensure that the right support is provided alongside the accommodation.
Further details of the Welsh Government response to the Afghanistan evacuation can be found in my Written Statement:
https://gov.wales/written-statement-distinctive-welsh-response-afghanistan-evacuation