Local political leaders visit 'Calais jungle'

A delegation of senior councillors from the Local Government Association (LGA) will meet with the Mayor of Calais and visit the ‘Calais Jungle' migrant camp tomorrow (18 August), to consider how local government in England and France can support each other to keep unaccompanied children and young people safe and ensure they receive the care and support they need. The LGA, which represents more than 370 councils across England and Wales, has for some time been liaising with its counterparts in other European countries about the response to the refugee crisis, in parallel with discussions between national governments. Tomorrow's visit gives councillors the chance to further build those relationships, sharing ideas and expertise and discussing the needs of children who may come to the UK for help.