Plans to house asylum seekers on a barge off the coast of Dorset could be subject to legal challenge. The Home Office has proposed using the 222-room Bibby Stockholm vessel to reduce reliance on hotels, which would save an estimated £6 million per day. Richard Drax, a local Conservative representative, stated that “all legal avenues” are being explored to halt the proposal.
The vessel, which can accommodate up to 500 people, has been renovated after being criticised as a “oppressive environment” when used by the Dutch government to transport asylum seekers. It now has rooms with private bathrooms, a TV and games room, and a fitness centre. However, charities have expressed concern that military bases and boats are “completely unsuitable” for housing refugees fleeing war and persecution.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman refused to confirm the deal with BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg on Sunday, stating that her office was “considering a variety of lands, sites, and vessels.” Last week, Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick announced plans to house migrants in former military bases. He stated that “the sheer number of small boats has overwhelmed the asylum system” and that “the welfare of illegal immigrants will not be prioritised over that of the British people.”
Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper criticised the plans as a “admission of failure” due to the fact that 98% of small boat arrivals last year were not processed or decided.
The controversy surrounding the housing of asylum seekers in the United Kingdom continues, with ministers potentially facing legal action if they move forward with plans to use a barge off the coast of Dorset. The Home Office has proposed using the Bibby Stockholm as a cost-cutting measure, but charities and opposition politicians have raised grave concerns about its suitability and whether it meets the basic needs of refugees fleeing persecution and war. The government is also considering other options, such as former military bases, in an effort to address the problem.
