Home   Kent   News   Article

The claim that migrant camps could crop up in Kent if there was a Brexit sparks clashes between MPs

Two Kent MPs have clashed over the EU referendum, with the claim that migrant camps could crop up in Kent if we left being described as “fear stories of the worst kind.”

South Thanet MP Craig Mackinlay - who wants the UK to leave - and Ashford MP Damian Green, who is backing calls to stay - were appearing on KMTV’s new political programme “Paul On Politics”.

The claim that a Brexit would lead to migrant camps in Kent provoked some sharp exchanges between the pair.

Watch: Kent MPs clash over Brexit

Mr Mackinlay said reports that migrant camps would crop up in Kent after a vote to leave were shameful.

But Mr Green retorted: “It is perfectly possible. The local French politicians do not like it at all.”“I am afraid this is all part of Project Fear. I am extolling the virtues of an independent Britain. Stories like migrant camps on the coast of Britain are shameful. It is fear stories of the worst order and I don’t think it does the ‘in’ campaign any credit.”

The MPs also discussed the pros and cons of the EU.

Watch: EU myths or not?

Mr Mackinlay said: “There is nothing to fear from leaving the EU, because there is a global world out there. Are we really to believe that the owners of BMW, Mercedes, the Danish bacon industry are going to stop selling us their products if Britain leaves the EU?”

“Why should being a member of this club make any difference?”

Damian Green Ashford MP said: “It’s a question of the balance of advantages. The last thing businesses need is uncertainty. Even if we could get as good terms as we get now, which I suspect we wouldn’t, it would take years to get there.”

Watch: What Brexit means for Kent business

"Being a member of the EU does not stop us trading with the world - the Germans trade very well with China. The truth is there are risks."

“Uncertainty would stop inward investment, chill growth in our economy and cause damage. Being a member of the EU does not stop us trading with the world - the Germans trade very well with China. The truth is there are risks.”

Watch the latest edition of Paul On Politics and send us your comments

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More