During a recent episode of Question Time, the audience showed their support by applauding as Matt Goodwin, a host from the right-wing network GB News, was challenged regarding his views on immigration.
Matt Goodwin, a political commentator on the network, had made remarks suggesting that “asylum seekers frequently violate laws” during his speech in Bradford, West Yorkshire. Economist Faiza Shaheen promptly responded to Goodwin, stating that in her experience, migrants desire the same opportunities as local residents.
The audience expressed their approval multiple times as Shaheen passionately defended her viewpoint, a clip of which has gained significant traction on social media. She emphasized, “I must challenge you, Matt, on your assertion that ‘they frequently break laws.’ While there are some individuals engaging in deplorable activities who should be dealt with, they represent the minority. These families aspire to the same things we do, such as ensuring their children excel in school… They come from regions like Iraq and Afghanistan, and many of us remember well enough that we bear responsibility for the turmoil in those countries.”
The exchange occurred early in Thursday’s episode, which commenced with a discussion about asylum seekers. The Home Office confirmed earlier on Thursday that hundreds of asylum seekers would be relocated to military facilities in Scotland and Sussex to eliminate the use of hotels.
Shaheen further supported this decision by stating, “It is crucial to dispel the notion that all asylum seekers should be feared, as many are ordinary individuals seeking refuge from dreadful circumstances, striving to establish a new life for their families.”
Around 900 men will be temporarily housed in the military sites, previously utilized for Afghan evacuees during the Kabul withdrawal in 2021. This marks a shift from using hotels, contracts for which were found to have wasted significant public funds.
Contrary to this approach, Goodwin, who has previously characterized immigration to the UK as an “invasion,” opposed Labour’s new strategy. He voiced to the Question Time audience, “Every individual in this nation is bearing the cost of £15 billion to support individuals who frequently violate our laws. This country has a reputation for fairness. We introduced the concept of fair play, which is not being upheld currently.
“Both Tory and Labour governments are encouraging unlawful entry into the country, jeopardizing the safety of women, children, and our citizens.”
Before Shaheen, a mother from east London, challenged Goodwin, a member of the audience criticized him. The audience member suggested that commentators like Goodwin should focus more on discussions regarding public services for UK residents, such as access to healthcare appointments. This sentiment echoed previous remarks made on the show, including comments from a participant in Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, earlier in the series.
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