Welsh Conservatives have criticised Plaid Cymru separatists’ decision to retain the controversial Nation of Sanctuary asylum seeker plan, calling it “irresponsible”

The scheme has been criticised as a “pull factor”, which encourages people to enter Britain illegally. Through the policy, asylum seekers’ entitlements to housing, healthcare and public services are advertised widely. Organisations are also funded to provide legal advice to help people avoid deportation, according to the Welsh Conservatives.

Responding to a written question by Welsh Conservatives Senedd Member Andrew RT Davies, Wales’ Deputy First Minister Sioned Williams confirmed the new administration is “committed to protecting the Nation of Sanctuary vision and ensuring the principles underpinning this vision are embedded across government policy and practice.”

Mr Davies said: “This is completely irresponsible from Plaid Cymru separatists. “The Nation of Sanctuary is a pull factor that encourages more people to come to Britain illegally.

“The separatists’ commitment to embed the policy across government will take resources away from public services and distract from their administration’s day to day functions.”