Main content
Sorry, this episode is not currently available

Should child migrants be locked up when they arrive in Kent?

Matt Davison sits in alongside Clare with the latest news, travel, and weather for Kent.

Around a quarter of unaccompanied children arriving in Kent from overseas in the last year disappeared. Now the woman in charge of looking after them says they should be locked up for up to 6 weeks for their own safety, to stop them ending up in the hands of child traffickers (06:07, 07:07 and 08:07).

Also, it can be the lifeline of last resort for some of the poorest people in Kent, but emergency cash help for those who need it is set to be withdrawn next year. The social fund, made up of crisis loans and grants, is currently run by the Government, but from next year responsibility for managing the fund will pass to local councils.

The social fund currently helps people like single parents if they cannnot afford to replace a broken fridge for example. It also helps with grants for larger amounts in certain circumstances, for example for victims of domestic violence having to move house quickly.

However, it looks likely that cash handouts will be replaced with vouchers for essentials like food and fuel from next April (06:22, 07:22 and 08:22).

And, when someone is caught using a mobile phone at the wheel, or driving carelessly, do you think they get punished enough?

Well, a new survey suggests the vast majority of drivers want to see much higher fines and tougher enforcement for these sorts of offences. Recent government proposals have suggested an increase to ninety pounds.

However, figures - from the charity Brake and Direct Line - show around half of those surveyed said fines should be Β£500 (7:39 and 08:48).

3 hours

Broadcast

  • Thu 20 Sep 2012 06:00