Reform UK-Led Sunderland Council Withdraws from City of Sanctuary Scheme
- Staff Correspondent
- Jun 26
- 2 min read
In a move signaling a shift in local priorities, Sunderland City Council under Reform UK control has exited the City of Sanctuary network. The decision, announced as a breaking development on June 26, 2026, fulfills an early pledge by the newly elected Reform administration.
Background: Reform's Landmark Victory
Reform UK achieved a historic breakthrough in the May 2026 local elections, seizing full control of Sunderland City Council after more than 50 years of Labour dominance. The party secured 58 out of 75 seats, installing Chris Eynon as council leader. This victory reflected voter frustration with long-standing issues around immigration, local services, and what Reform described as ideological commitments made without public consultation.
What is the City of Sanctuary Scheme, and why is Reform against it?
The City of Sanctuary is a nationwide network that encourages towns and cities to foster welcoming environments for refugees, asylum seekers, and other migrants. Participation is largely symbolic—it involves sharing best practices, promoting community integration, and signaling a supportive stance toward those seeking sanctuary. It does not grant local authorities control over immigration numbers or housing allocations, which remain national Home Office responsibilities.
Sunderland had pursued this status under the previous Labour-led administration (with support from Lib Dems and Conservatives), but critics, including Reform, argued it was an unconsulted "ideological commitment."
Reactions and Controversy against Reform doing this!
Reform UK's Position: The council views withdrawal as a practical step to prioritize domestic issues like housing, services, and community cohesion amid national pressures on immigration. Supporters see it as delivering on electoral promises and rejecting "gesture politics."
Opposition and Critics: The Reverend Chris Howson, chair of Sunderland City of Sanctuary, called the move "performative gesture politics." Local groups and some residents expressed disappointment, arguing it sends a negative signal to existing communities, including Ukrainian refugees, and costs nothing while promoting welcome.
Broader Context: Reform has also moved on other symbolic issues, such as banning the Pride flag from City Hall in favor of national and civic flags only.
The decision aligns with Reform UK's national messaging on controlling borders and focusing resources locally. Sunderland's experience with rising asylum seeker placements (noted in earlier campaign materials) fueled local debates, though the sanctuary status itself did not drive those numbers
Implications
This exit marks one of the first tangible policy shifts under Reform leadership in a major English city. It highlights deepening divides in UK local politics over immigration and identity. As the council debates further motions—including potentially ending a climate emergency declaration—the coming months will test whether Reform can translate campaign rhetoric into effective governance for Wearside residents.
The story continues to develop, with national attention on how this pioneering Reform council navigates its new mandate.
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