Secret Arrival of Asylum Seekers Triggers New Protests at Canary Wharf Hotel
Undercover Operation Brings 62 Asylum Seekers to Britannia Hotel
In the dead of night on Friday, a covert operation smuggled the first group of asylum seekers into the Britannia International Hotel at Canary Wharf. Video footage shows a large white coach pulling up behind the hotel’s security barriers, flanked by private security guards.
Sixty-two men were swiftly escorted off the coach and hustled inside, kicking off what’s expected to be a wave of arrivals at the sprawling 500-room, four-star hotel. The government is reportedly shelling out £80 a night for each room amid a nationwide scramble to house asylum seekers.
Police on High Alert as Protests Erupt
Tuesday night saw angry protests flare up outside the hotel. The Metropolitan Police swiftly mobilised officers to keep the peace. A force spokesperson said,
“Officers are currently in attendance at a protest outside a hotel in Canary Wharf. We have a policing plan in place and will continue to monitor events.”
No arrests have been made so far.
Council Calls for Support Amid Controversy
Tower Hamlets Council acknowledged the government’s move to use the Britannia hotel for temporary asylum seeker housing. A council spokesperson stressed the need for robust support systems, saying,
“It is important that the government ensures there is a full package of support for those staying at the hotel. We are working with the Home Office and partners to make sure all necessary safety and safeguarding arrangements are in place.”
Situation Remains Volatile as Debate Rages
The use of hotels as interim asylum housing continues to spark fierce debate among community groups, political leaders, and local councils. Officials confirm this move is part of a broader contingency plan as existing asylum housing faces mounting pressure.
