Asylum Seekers: Middlesbrough

Confirms the Government's commitment to protecting asylum seekers. Describes current accommodation arrangements under COMPASS contracts and acknowledges concerns raised in The Times about door painting practices, promising an urgent audit of contract compliance.

Reiterates the urgency for corrective actions on painted doors. Questions if the Government will take swift punitive measures against contractors involved in discriminatory practices, demanding an immediate timeline for resolution.

Stresses the need for rapid action to address the issue on the ground. Urges that painting doors should be completed within days rather than weeks, emphasising the importance of immediate community reassurance.

Today’s report in The Times is deeply concerning, as it reveals that asylum accommodation doors were painted red despite the Home Office inspection regime and local authority assurance scheme. This raises questions about underpinning arrangements and oversight failures. Hate crime increased by 18% last year, making this situation particularly troubling. There are concerns over whether internal inspection or auditing schemes flagged up these issues, and the need for further inquiries into contractors and subcontractors to prevent similar incidents.

Initial investigations show that some social housing providers might paint in a particular colour for maintenance purposes. An audit has been commissioned to address this issue, focusing on the north-east and looking at inspection regimes and processes to identify whether issues are dealt with appropriately.

The red doors incident raises serious concerns about the broader delivery of contracts for asylum accommodation. The provision of poor-quality housing, staff mistreatment, inappropriate sharing of accommodation, and fragmented services are issues that require a broadened inquiry to reflect these concerns.

It is extraordinary that it took a journalist to expose problems with the COMPASS contract despite inspections. The Home Affairs Committee has written to Ministers about these issues in the past. An audit may not be sufficient, and further action might be needed based on its findings.

The Minister should ensure that those responsible for painting doors red are told clearly that certain aspects of 1936 Berlin must not be repeated in Britain. The Home Secretary and her Ministers need to address these concerns.

Concerns about painting doors red were first raised by a Liberal Democrat councillor in 2012, who pursued the issue doggedly. The councillor was told there were no complaints, raising suspicions that an audit is less than what is required.

Expressed concerns about the housing conditions in his constituency, particularly regarding Jomast's accommodations which have been scrutinised by national media. He has visited substandard homes that passed inspection and are profiting from Government contracts. Called for a detailed review of Teesside accommodation standards, including houses of multiple occupation, to improve value for tenants and the Government.

Stated that ensuring accommodation is safe, habitable, and fit for purpose is a key part of their inspection regime. Indicated that current standards have been met based on available advice but was open to further focusing on the issue as part of an audit.