Sunak: Migrant Barges Best Value for Brits
Rishi Sunak has dismissed calls to eliminate migrant barges, asserting that they provide the best value for British taxpayers. The Prime Minister's spokesman confirmed that the government is seeking to hire more vessels for alternative accommodation to hotels, which are costing significant sums every day.
Blame Game Erupts over Disease Discovery
A blame game has erupted following the discovery of diseases on board the Bibby Stockholm barge in Portland, Dorset. All 39 asylum seekers were moved off the vessel after legionella was found in the water supply. While no one has fallen ill, the Home Office has faced criticism for delay in disembarking the migrants following the test results.
Internal Inquiry Underway
An internal inquiry is now taking place to establish the facts surrounding the incident. Downing Street acknowledges that "lessons may have to be learned" from the situation, as Dorset Council claims it informed the contractors and a Home Office official about the bacteria traces much earlier than previously stated.
Labour's Shifting Stance on Migrant Accommodation
Labour's position on migrant accommodation has come under scrutiny after Sir Keir Starmer ruled out keeping barges, hotels, or airfields to house migrants. This comes just days after his own immigration spokesman admitted that they would be forced to keep them temporarily. The party's stance remains unclear.
Priti Patel Criticizes Plans to Use Disused Air Base
Former Home Secretary Dame Priti Patel has criticized her successor, Suella Braverman, over plans to accommodate 1,700 asylum seekers in a disused air base. Patel expressed concerns about the lack of clarity surrounding the proposal, describing it as "alarming and staggering" and implying that the Home Office is being evasive.
Tory MPs Angered by French Officials
Many Conservative MPs are furious with French officials for failing to halt the increasing number of migrant crossings. They are calling for a reassessment of the £480 million in funding Britain provides to France. The Prime Minister's spokesman emphasized that the government would evaluate France's performance before sending the next tranche of funding, but assured that the deal has already led to tangible results.
