Burnham is blasted over Piddington migrant camp approval by council boss: ‘Any sexual violence will be on your head’

Key Points:

• The UK government has approved housing 1,250 male migrants in the small Oxfordshire village of Piddington, which has a population of just 350, sparking fierce opposition from local officials and residents concerned about safety risks.
• Local council leader Tim McNally and Conservative MP Greg Smith expressed strong fears over potential sexual assaults and public safety, criticizing the government for ignoring community concerns and accusing Prime Minister Andy Burnham of hypocrisy.
• Officials admit migrants will be free to move around the area, but claim the village’s isolated location limits their movement; however, local politicians dispute this, highlighting nearby villages within walking distance and road safety issues.
• The village held a symbolic referendum with a 92% turnout, overwhelmingly voting for independence in protest against the migrant housing plans, reflecting deep local unease about the demographic impact and safety implications.
• The Home Office stated that a final decision on proceeding with the housing site is still pending and emphasized ongoing efforts to distribute asylum accommodation more fairly across the UK, while the government claims significant cost savings since the election.