Oxfordshire village votes to leave UK over asylum housing plan

Residents of the Oxfordshire village of Piddington have voted to become independent of the UK in a symbolic referendum held in protest of plans to house over 1,000 migrants at a former military base. The referendum was organized by the village's parish council and resulted in 285 votes to leave, 26 votes against, and one spoiled ballot.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy stated that the government would not reconsider the migration housing proposal as it would be unfair to other communities. The Prime Minister acknowledged the villagers' strong feelings but emphasized the need for fairness across the country. The Home Office's proposal to house migrants at MoD Bicester, located near Piddington, has received widespread criticism from local politicians, charities, and residents.