Reform UK has launched a scathing critique of Labour's local candidate for Runcorn and Helsby, Karen Shone, accusing her of duplicitous behavior toward voters regarding asylum seekers. This accusation comes as Shone recently began campaigning against a local asylum hotel, contradicting her previous position as a strong advocate for welcoming refugees.
On March 17, 2025, Shone initiated an online petition aimed at closing the asylum hotel, placing it among her priorities as she seeks to replace former MP Mike Amesbury. This move has raised eyebrows, particularly from Reform UK, which has highlighted her past statements that praised the local authority's warm welcome to Afghan and Syrian refugees during her tenure as deputy leader of Cheshire West and Chester council.
A spokesperson for Reform UK expressed their concern, stating, "A record 26,000 illegal migrants have crossed the English Channel since Labour came to power in July 2025. Karen Shore proudly declared that she was ‘warmly welcoming’ asylum seekers yet now she is trying to deceive the voters of Runcorn and Helsby." This comment underscores the party's narrative that Labour has shifted its stance inconsistently to appease current political sentiments.
Shone's pivot on asylum matters is particularly notable given the political climate. Recent polling data suggests that Reform UK is on track to overtake Labour in Runcorn and Helsby for the upcoming by-election. This comes on the heels of Amesbury's resignation after being handed a suspended prison sentence for assaulting a constituent, leaving Labour to contend with a potentially volatile seat.
In defense of her current petition, Shone's spokesman articulated Labour's position on the asylum system, stating, "This is about fairness. The Government is fixing a broken system left behind by the Conservatives, leaving genuine refugees in limbo, unable to rebuild their lives, while those with no right to be here are being subsidised by the taxpayer. Nobody should be living like this. We need a system which provides dignity and security, that’s what Labour are providing by fixing the system.”
The political ramifications of this back-and-forth are substantial, as Shone and Labour defend their commitment to reforming the asylum process while also facing mounting pressure from opponents. The ongoing debate reflects broader national concerns surrounding immigration, asylum policies, and political trust.
As the bi-election approaches, the stakes are high not just for Runcorn and Helsby, but for the larger narrative surrounding Labour's leadership under ongoing scrutiny regarding its approaches and solutions to asylum issues. The allegations of deceiving constituents could potentially sway undecided voters as Reform UK capitalizes on Labour’s past contradictions.
In conclusion, the allegations and counter-allegations between Reform UK and Labour in Runcorn illustrate a significant tension in contemporary British politics. The contrast between past and present positions on critical social issues, such as those faced by asylum seekers, will undoubtedly influence voter sentiment headed into the by-election. Withjust three weeks until polling day, both parties are aware of the significant implications this seat holds in defining their overall electoral strategies and public image.
