SOURCE: UNI
On 26th March, British MPs wrote to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, advocating the construction of an international airport in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Labour MP Tahir Ali has come under fire for backing a campaign for a new international airport in Mirpur, a district in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, while his own city struggles with an escalating waste crisis due to ongoing bin strikes.
The letter read, “The long-standing promise of an international airport in Mirpur has yet to be met,” suggesting that the nearest airport is the Islamabad International Airport, which is 130 km away from Mirpur city. The MPs stated that the excess of three hours’ driving following long-haul flights has pushed for demands for an international airport in the region.
Ali’s comments, however, drew sharp criticism, including from Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick, who rebuked him for focusing on issues abroad rather than addressing Birmingham’s deteriorating waste situation.
“You’re an MP for Birmingham, not Mirpur. The streets of your city are literally piled high in rubbish thanks to your Labour council. Focus on the UK,” Jenrick posted.
Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, aka Tan Dhesi, a Sikh MP from the UK, wrote, “British Kashmiris, including in Slough, would like an international airport in Mirpur, which will also raise trade and tourism between both nations.”