The website was overwhelmed after Michael Gove, the Levelling Up Secretary, confirmed the full details of the programme in the House of Commons.
“The irony of this is I’m actually quite proud that the system struggled,” Mr Cleverly, the Europe minister, told LBC.
“We built it quickly. We could have spent more time stress-testing this website and delayed it a couple of days before launching. But, frankly, I’m glad we moved quickly on this and we’re moving quickly to ensure we’re able to help the Ukrainian refugees.
“I know this is a weird thing to say as a Government minister – I’m glad the website crashed, because it is a reflection of that generosity of the British people.”
Asked whether he would take a refugee himself, Mr Cleverly said he has “genuinely considered” the issue but said his wife’s ongoing medical treatment may not allow him to do so “right at this moment”.
On Monday afternoon, Mr Gove said ministers were hoping to “answer the call” of the British public and said “more can, and must, be done” to support those fleeing the Russian invasion.
