
Today we are looking at the story headlined: “Migrants must leave Epping Hotel.” This is a case that has received much attention in recent weeks, both in the press and on social media.
The High Court Decision
The Daily Telegraph reported that asylum seekers can no longer be housed in the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex. Epping Forest Council was granted a temporary injunction to prevent the owner, Smani Hotels, from accommodating migrants through a Home Office contract.
Mr Justice Eyre granted the injunction but extended the timeframe by which the hotel must stop housing asylum seekers. Instead of 14 days, all migrants must now leave by 12 September 2025.
The ruling came after the Home Office attempted to derail the injunction, warning that such decisions could undermine the wider asylum hotel scheme across Britain.
Local Reactions and Protests
For weeks, residents have gathered outside the Epping Hotel in protest. On social media, there has been strong reaction, including a widely shared video of Reggie, a 15-year-old local, speaking passionately about the failures of government and the need for change. His words have resonated with many who feel their voices are not being heard.
One of the concerns expressed by locals is the way taxpayer money is being used to fund large hotel groups profiting from asylum contracts. As was pointed out on social media, the Bell Hotel’s ownership is linked to multiple other hotels, raising questions about whether this has become an industrial-scale money-making operation.
This is Reggie from Epping – he helped get The Bell Hotel closed.. What an inspiring young man (please share)
Full Epping report here ▶️ https://t.co/4SUCRAzD98 pic.twitter.com/evaRhMz4ba
— Liam Tuffs (@liamtuffs1) August 19, 2025
A Christian Perspective
As a Christian, I believe in helping people — especially those in genuine need. The Bible is clear about showing love and hospitality to strangers:
- Leviticus 19:34 (NKJV): “The stranger who dwells among you shall be to you as one born among you, and you shall love him as yourself; for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.”
- Hebrews 13:2 (NKJV): “Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.”
- Galatians 6:10 (NKJV): “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.”
However, the Bible also speaks about the importance of order, justice, and national boundaries:
- Acts 17:26 (NKJV): “And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their preappointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings.”
- 1 Corinthians 14:40 (NKJV): “Let all things be done decently and in order.”
- Romans 13:1-2 (NKJV): “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.”
So yes, we are called to show compassion — but also to act with wisdom and responsibility. We must ask: Are people seeking refuge from genuine persecution, or are they simply exploiting the system? The Bible reminds us to balance mercy with truth.
Hope Beyond Politics
The situation we see in the UK today can be discouraging. Failed policies, government inaction, and division have left many disillusioned. But as Christians, we know there is a greater hope — Jesus Christ.
If you are not yet a Christian, you may be troubled by what you see happening around us. The Bible tells us that Jesus came to set the captives free and to bring eternal life. If you sincerely believe that He died for your sins and rose again, you can receive the gift of salvation.
Here is a simple prayer you can pray:
Dear Lord Jesus, I acknowledge you as Lord and Saviour of my life. I repent of all my sins and I ask you today to take over complete control of every aspect of my life. Amen.
If you prayed that prayer and believe in Jesus, you have begun a new life in Him. I encourage you to read the Bible daily and connect with other believers for encouragement.
Related Articles on A Countryman’s View
- Do We Really Still Have Freedom of Speech in the UK?
- Is Britain Trading the Bible for Sharia?
- Labour’s War on Allotments
Thank you for reading. Please feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts on this issue.