The problem of asylum seekers and refugees is causing much concern to some councils. I hope that the Minister will let us know when she winds up the debate whether more flexibility can be introduced into the system to deal with that specific issue. Friend will know that Gatwick airport is in the neighbouring county to mine. Because of the number of asylum seekers, especially children, coming through the airport, social services in West Sussex have faced a 50 per cent. The social services SSA for the past five years has decreased by 16 per cent.
Friend makes a good and serious point.
The Home Secretary was unable to tell me the other day how many asylum seekers and refugees are living in my constituency. We do know that more than 200 were assigned to local GPs in Eastbourne in November and December last year. It is only when people present themselves to some branch of health or social services that one knows they are there. I now have a running commentary from two lady Members on the Labour Benches. I am very grateful, but they are drowning each other out.