Residents of Piddington, a small village in Oxfordshire, England, held a symbolic referendum on September 16, 2026, to express their opposition to government plans for an asylum reception center at a nearby disused military base. Approximately 350 residents participated in the vote, with a turnout of nearly 92%. Out of 312 ballots cast, 285 residents voted in favor of secession from the United Kingdom, while 26 voted against, and one ballot was spoiled. The village's parish council chair, Tim McNally, stated that the village would identify as the 'Principality of Piddington' moving forward.
The proposed asylum center, located at MoD Bicester (Site A), aims to house asylum seekers, a plan that has faced criticism from local residents. McNally raised concerns about the integration of a large number of asylum seekers into a small community. An official from Oxfordshire County Council warned that the plan could attract far-right protests. The Labour government is working to relocate asylum seekers from hotels to military facilities by 2029, a move that has been met with protests in various locations.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham acknowledged the community's concerns and indicated he would consider the issues raised in the referendum. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy defended the use of military bases as a more suitable option for housing asylum seekers compared to hotels. The government emphasized that the plan is still subject to feasibility studies and planning permissions, and it aims to ensure safety for the local community and those accommodated at the site. The facility is expected to operate for a minimum of 10 years and will be monitored for security.