Tory MPs condemn own asylum hotel ad for weak messaging

Leaked messages show Conservative MPs doubting a party attack ad on asylum hotels and warning it risks backfiring

Tory MPs condemn own asylum hotel ad for weak messaging

Leaked WhatsApp messages from Conservative MPs reveal frustration with a party attack ad about asylum hotels. Kevin Hollinrake, the Tory chair, called the post “of concern” but said it would not be deleted. The advert claimed asylum seekers receive housing, meals and clothing provided by the state and cited perks like language lessons, driving lessons and PlayStation consoles, some of which have been challenged as exaggerations. Several shadow ministers replied with thumbs up to colleagues’ responses, while one MP urged removing the post to avoid giving Labour a weapon.

MPs noted that many benefits cited in the ad were introduced by Conservative governments and warned the messaging risked confusing voters about who is responsible for immigration policy. A party spokesperson framed immigration reform as a change under new leadership and pointed to tougher measures, including a deportation bill, while insisting Labour should be held to account for its approach to the small boats crisis. The leak exposes a broader debate about how the party should talk about immigration as it heads toward elections.

The episode shows a party in flux, grappling with how to frame a divisive issue without alienating supporters or inviting backlash. Internal disagreements over messaging suggest a gap between campaign rhetoric and governing reality. The leak also highlights how quickly political narratives can collide with policy records, especially when past actions feed current attacks.

If the Conservatives want to rebuild trust, they need clear, specific proposals rather than rehashed claims about past perks. The leadership’s attempt to present a shift under new leadership may calm some supporters but risks eroding credibility if core policies remain unchanged. The real test is whether the party can deliver a consistent message that aligns with its stated goals while avoiding partisan exaggeration that undercuts its core arguments.

Highlights

Immigration policy will continue to shape the party as it seeks a steadier path forward