AS a country we have always been welcoming of refugees, asylum seekers and immigrants.

Indeed, those who have arrived in our country have put down roots and made a significant and important contribution.

Over time, we have seen new arrivals, their children and their grandchildren integrate into our society to such an extent that we now have our first British Asian Prime Minister – this is something that we as a welcoming country should be proud of. 

Legal immigration can be controlled and planned for – which helps those coming to our country integrate with our way of life, whilst ensuring that the established communities themselves can accommodate new arrivals in a pragmatic and sensible way.

This allows employment opportunities to be created and services to adequately adapt.

However, it has to be acknowledged that the use of illegal immigration routes is a very different matter – especially when it is sizeable and very visible.

This is the issue we are facing right now with the unprecedented number of boats that are crossing the channel.

The fact of the matter is that many of the individuals in question are coming through safe, wealthy, and compassionate countries – and it is there that they should be making any claims for asylum or refugee status.

A large number choose not to because they are economic immigrants, and a sadly significant number choose not to because they are victims of people smuggling.

This illegal route needs to be eliminated to stop both types of entry.

It is quite clear that these numbers are putting pressure on local communities and services.

If we continue this way, many more thousands will continue to undertake these journeys. This in turn creates a market for the smuggling gangs and unscrupulous human traffickers, only exacerbating the problem. 

Over the years, Carlisle has accepted and welcomed many migrants. Many people in the city will be aware that after the second world war our city welcomed a large number of Ukrainians.

Due to ongoing conflict, Ukrainians once more have had cause to come to our city – but I was pleased to see the people are Carlisle again welcome them with open arms in a time of need. 

However, to suddenly have more than 100 refugees, a number of whom have entered this country through illegal routes, located in one single location (such as a hotel) can create unnecessary problems and issues.

The setting up of these locations is not a solution to the issue – and they need to be wound down as quickly as possible. 

The use of the Hilltop Hotel, because of its particular location and set-up, is one thing – but the use of a hotel in a fully residential area of the city, close to schools and other important local amenities is another.

I have had discussions with the Home Office seeking clarity and reassurances on these issues and I have made representations to Ministers about local concerns.

Whilst I still think the location is inappropriate, the fact that I have been informed that the occupants will be single females only gives some reassurance.

Nevertheless, it is extremely important to consider the host community, or other problems will emerge.

It is vital that the Government gets on top of the situation. They need to in order to ensure that those who come here legally are welcomed and accommodated as they should be.

Our immigration policy should be a positive one – but in order for this to be the case, illegal immigration routes need to be eliminated.

READ MORE: City hotel set to host refugee families - as MP calls for 'immediate action' on 'illegal migration'