Asylum Seeker Barge Docks at Dorset’s Portland Port
The Bibby Stockholm barge, set to house around 500 single men seeking asylum, has docked at Portland Port in Dorset. This marks the start of an 18-month stay as part of the government’s cost-cutting move to ease pressure on traditional accommodation.
Illegal Migration Bill Clears Key Stage in Lords
The barge’s arrival comes as the government’s controversial Illegal Migration Bill pushes through the House of Lords. The new law aims to block asylum claims from people entering via the Channel or other “illegal” routes. Under the bill, some asylum seekers could be sent to third countries like 123. The government hopes the Illegal Migration Bill will reduce reliance on barges and hotels, but controversy shows no signs of easing.
