THE WHAT? A coalition of British businesses including Marks & Spencer has formed in order to provide jobs and accommodation for Ukrainian refugees, according to a report by The Times.   

THE DETAILS The businesses are in talks with the British government, which has faced growing criticism over its response to the crisis. 

The large businesses are providing up to 10,000 jobs to the women fleeing the country, with the men required to stay behind and fight in the Russian invasion. 

Co-ordinated by entrepreneur Emma Sinclair, the consortium is working to provide visas as well as suitable accommodation and language training. 

Fashion retailer ASOS is said to be examining whether it could recruit Ukrainian refugees for IT jobs, while Lush is meeting with the Refugee Council to help facilitate a smooth transition into its work force. 

Marks & Spencer said: “We are absolutely committed to supporting Ukrainian refugees, through the humanitarian response underway with our charity partners and with jobs.”

Other high street retailers are also in talks to join the coalition.

THE WHY? The coalition has formed following the lacklustre support given to Ukrainian refugees by the UK government, with Home Secretary Priti Patel being condemned for her response and only 1305 refugees having been handed visas. 

A Downing Street spokesperson said: “This is exactly the kind of thing we appreciate — the generous British public offering to step up in this grave hour of need for our friends in Ukraine.”