The UK government has announced plans to use three sites, including two former military bases, to house migrants in an effort to reduce reliance on hotels. Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick told the Commons the sites in Lincolnshire, Essex, and East Sussex could accommodate 'several thousand' people.
Mr Jenrick said the 'sheer number of small boats have overwhelmed the asylum system' and stressed that accommodation should 'meet essential living needs and nothing more' to avoid becoming a 'magnet' for economic migrants. The government also confirmed it is 'exploring the possibility' of using ferries, though no firm decision has been taken.
The plans have faced criticism from local MPs and communities. Conservative MP Sir Edward Leigh, whose constituency includes RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire, called the choice a 'thoroughly bad idea' and said the local authority would launch a judicial review. Foreign Secretary James Cleverly also criticised the use of a site in his Essex constituency, calling it 'inappropriate' due to its remote location.
Labour shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper described the announcement as 'an admission of failure' on asylum policy. The government says £6.2m a day is spent on hotels for migrants, with over 51,000 people currently housed in 395 hotels. New funding will be made available for local authorities to help cover costs.
Mr Jenrick said the sites would initially house single adult males and stressed it was not his 'intention' for minors to be accommodated there. The government has also been assessing barracks at Catterick Garrison in Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's constituency for potential use.
