Different situation Gav. Maggie forced devastating change destroying communities rather than allowing gradual change where and only where necessary: forcing folk who would prefer to remain in the community they were to move elsewhere in their own UK. Basically she was spreading misery because she wanted quick change and felt it wasn't a concern how those affected felt. She didn't seem to believe in the strength of society; but in a help yourself, we don't care philosophy.
In this present situation the conflict already exists and the folk actually wish to leave the danger behind: and see an opportunity to better their economic situation be flaunting the humane rules agreed to help refugees, and demanding to be an immigrant to another country of their choice, regardless whether the country they wish has any need for further population.
I don't see the two situations as being particularly comparable.