‘Survivor Novichok is right – Britain must help refugees escape Russian bombs’ – People’s Voice

The Tory minister callously cited the 2018 Salisbury poisonings as proof that asylum seekers must apply for visas to ensure they are not being attacked by secret Russian spies.

No one has more reason to fear the threat posed by the Russian state to this country than Charlie Rowley.

He was the innocent Englishman who was poisoned in the nerve agent attack in Salisbury that left his girlfriend, Dawn Sturgess, dead.

Charlie has no illusions about the brutal times that President Putin’s evil regime will come – even on British soil.

But today he speaks out against those who hesitate to allow Ukrainians to flee into our country because of security concerns.

The Tory minister callously cited the 2018 Salisbury poisonings as proof that those seeking refuge must apply for visas to ensure they are not being attacked by secret Russian spies.

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The government says it has streamlined the visa process – but this is not enough.

When bombs fell, the refugee crisis worsened. Every day, more innocent victims of war flee to Moldova, Poland and Romania.

We should open our borders and our hearts to them.

Charlie still lives with the nightmare that Russian agents could come back to find him at any moment.

But he rightly points out that Britain cannot turn a blind eye to refugees fleeing Russian bombs.

If he can find it in his heart to welcome them, so can we.

Precious memory

Football legend Brendon Ormsby will never be forgotten by Leeds United fans when he scored one of their most memorable goals.

His 1987 header against QPR secured their club a place in the last eight in the FA Cup. But Brendon can’t remember the target because of a cruel form of amnesia.

Now, his former teammates are organizing a benefit night at Elland Road to raise money for his care. Years after they shared the dressing room, the team spirit continued.

Our voice is yours

You will notice that your Sunday People cost 10p more this Sunday. It’s not something we want to do, especially when times are tough.

But the increased cost means it’s either that, or a lower standard. And we know you deserve the best.

As our journalists risk their lives in Ukraine and fight injustice at home, we thank you all – for giving us a voice to those who have not.