Vodafone defends migrant SIM scheme after Reform threat

Vodafone has defended its distribution of SIM cards to refugees through the charity Care4Calais, following threats from the political party Reform UK. Reform UK's shadow home secretary, Zia Yusuf, has demanded that Vodafone cancel over 2,000 SIM cards handed out by the charity and threatened the company's CEO and directors with prison and removal from government contracts.

Yusuf stated that Vodafone's program, which provides SIM cards to registered UK charities for distribution within Britain, is aiding illegal Channel crossings. He has called for Vodafone to terminate its relationship with Care4Calais and hand over tracking data to authorities.

A Vodafone spokesperson asserted that the connectivity provided is restricted to UK use only and that participating charities are regulated by the Charity Commission. Care4Calais has also defended its work, stating it is proud to support refugees and asylum seekers.

Reform UK's proposed 'Polanski's Law' aims to make aiding illegal entry a strict liability offense, potentially leading to criminal sanctions for individuals and companies involved, regardless of intent. Yusuf specifically warned that Vodafone executives could face criminal charges and prison if the company is found to have knowingly facilitated illegal entry.