Controversial asylum seeker barge to be axed from start of next year

A controversial barge used to house asylum seekers of the Dorset coast is to close at the start of next year.
The government has announced it will not renew the contract with the owners of the Bibby Stockholm which is moored in Portland Port.
The decision to use the barge to house asylum seekers triggered controversy in the area amongst local people and politicians.
The Home Office has now confirmed it will end the contract from next year as part of the government’s commitment to clear the backlog and fix the asylum system.
The decision will saving more than £20m and is is part of an expected £7.7bn of savings in asylum costs over the next decade.
Minister for border security and asylum, Dame Angela Eagle, said: “We are determined to restore order to the asylum system, so that it operates swiftly, firmly and fairly; and ensures the rules are properly enforced.
“The home secretary has set out plans to start clearing the asylum backlog and making savings on accommodation which is running up vast bills for the taxpayer.
“The Bibby Stockholm will continue to be in use until the contract expires in January 2025.”
The decision to use the three-storey barge to house asylum seekers last summer was subject to legal challenges and protests.
Soon after the first group boarded the vessel there was an outbreak of Legionella bacteria found in the barge’s water system.