Waverley Council leader denounces false migrant hotel rumors

Paul Follows, the leader of Waverley Borough Council, has condemned the spread of false rumors and “deeply unpleasant” racism regarding alleged migrant hotels in Godalming. Follows reported being tagged in social media posts and receiving personal messages concerning a local hotel that is not being used for asylum seekers, as he claims.

Follows noted that the Home Office is required to notify local authorities when using short-term accommodation for individuals fleeing persecution, but stated that no such notification has occurred. He criticized the lack of evidence provided by those spreading the claims, noting that they often point to other unsubstantiated social media posts.

The council leader expressed concern that this misinformation is damaging to local businesses and risks increasing community tensions. He also highlighted that the asylum system has lacked proper funding for years and called for compassion toward those seeking refuge.