Britain initiated the process of returning asylum seekers to a barge stationed on its southern coast on Thursday. This move comes after the vessel was swiftly vacated two months ago due to the discovery of Legionella bacteria in its water supply. The government aims to reduce the hefty daily cost of accommodating migrants in hotels during the processing of their asylum claims, which currently stands at 8 million pounds ($9.7 million).
Following thorough health, fire, and water inspections, the government confirmed the barge’s suitability for housing asylum seekers. The incident of water contamination proved to be a setback for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, whose crackdown on illegal migration has become a central focus ahead of the anticipated national election next year.
In an effort to discourage unauthorized entry into the country, the government is relocating migrants to disused military sites and barges, such as the grey, three-story Bibby Stockholm in Portland, capable of housing over 500 individuals in more than 200 bedrooms. A spokesperson from Britain’s Home Office, the interior ministry, assured that the number of occupants onboard will gradually increase, forming part of a meticulously structured, phased approach.
However, critics have denounced the barge as inhumane and likened it to a prison ship. Steve Smith, the chief executive of refugee charity Care4Calais, condemned the government’s use of barges and barracks, arguing that such accommodation strips asylum seekers of their liberty. Despite opposition, London’s High Court rejected a legal challenge to house people on the barge earlier this month.
