In a bold and controversial move, the British government is negotiating to repurpose tourist hotels on the sun-drenched Spanish islands of Majorca and Ibiza into housing for asylum seekers. This unprecedented plan, which mirrors the UK's domestic use of hotels for migrants, is being met with fierce resistance from local authorities and business owners who fear catastrophic damage to their vital tourism economy.
A Direct Impact on Spanish Shores
The initiative, led by Home Secretary Suella Braverman, would see the UK effectively export its asylum accommodation crisis to popular holiday destinations. Officials from the Balearic Islands have confirmed they are aware of the negotiations, which involve identifying specific hotels that could be block-booked by the UK government.
The President of the Balearic Islands, Marga Prohens, has publicly condemned the plan, vowing to fight it "with all the tools at our disposal." Local sentiment is one of shock and anger, with one source labelling the idea "absolute madness" that threatens the very lifeblood of the region.
Industry Backlash and Economic Fears
The tourism and hospitality sector is sounding the alarm. The Benidorm and Costa Blanca Hotel Association has warned that such a scheme would be "very negative" and could severely tarnish the international image of Spain's premier holiday spots. The potential for a sharp decline in British tourists—a key demographic for the islands—is a primary concern for hoteliers and business owners alike.
Part of a Broader UK Strategy
This offshore plan is a key component of the UK's strategy to stop the use of hotels for asylum seekers within British towns and cities, a practice that costs taxpayers an estimated £6 million per day. The government is pursuing multiple avenues to deter illegal immigration, including the highly publicised Rwanda deportation scheme and the Bibby Stockholm barge accommodation.
However, the plan to use EU hotels is particularly contentious post-Brexit. The UK would need to navigate complex diplomatic channels and ensure all arrangements comply with Spanish and EU law, adding a significant layer of difficulty to the proposal.
A Political and Diplomatic Hot Potato
The news has instantly become a political hot potato. While the UK Home Office maintains it is exploring a range of accommodation options, the reaction suggests a major diplomatic and logistical challenge ahead. The success of the plan hinges entirely on cooperation from Spanish authorities, who have so far shown nothing but hostility towards the idea.
For the residents and businesses of Majorca and Ibiza, the proposal has introduced an unexpected and unwelcome layer of uncertainty, casting a shadow over the future of their lucrative tourist season.
