Conservative MPs have voiced anger over their party’s handling of communications on asylum hotels, with leaked WhatsApp messages revealing deep internal frustration at what some called “piss-poor” messaging.
According to ConservativeHome, the row began after Conservative Campaign Headquarters (CCHQ) published an advert claiming asylum seekers housed in hotels received a “list of perks,” including free accommodation, meals, and clothing provided by the state. The advert also suggested arrivals were offered discounted language lessons, free driving lessons, and even PlayStation consoles — claims that have since been challenged as exaggerated.
Tory MPs Say Messaging Backfires
Broxbourne MP Lewis Cocking criticised the campaign, writing: “This makes us look silly as we gave them all this too… completely unacceptable.” He called for asylum seekers to be held in detention centres and deported.
His message was supported by MPs Alicia Kearns, Andrew Rosindell, and Paul Holmes, who responded with approval emojis. Cocking added that the advert could be weaponised against Tory MPs with asylum hotels in their constituencies, warning: “The community is ripping itself apart.”
Debate Over Deleting the Post
While some MPs urged the removal of the advert, Kevin Hollinrake, chair of the Conservative Party, said deleting it would be counterproductive, though he admitted the wording “should have been better framed.” He explained the campaign aimed to show the party’s stance under “new leadership,” despite past policies.
MP Ben Obese-Jecty pointed out that many of the criticised policies were introduced under Conservative governments. “Why are we trying to pin them on Labour who can easily point that out?” he asked. Another MP described the campaign as yet another case of “unnecessary media embarrassment” caused by poor communications.
Conservatives Defend Immigration Policy
A Conservative Party spokesperson defended the messaging, saying Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch has admitted the party’s past failures on immigration and set out “bold new plans” to fix them, including a deportation bill designed to regain control of UK borders.
The spokesperson added: “We will continue to hold Labour to account for their total failure to tackle the small boats crisis.”
