Asylum Seekers: Bournemouth West

Opened the debate

The MP Conor Burns raised concerns about the situation regarding those seeking asylum and awaiting a decision on their status in his Bournemouth West constituency. He highlighted that there are currently 666 asylum seekers across the conurbation, including 56 unaccompanied asylum-seeking children in care, which is significantly higher than both national and regional averages. Burns emphasised the financial pressure this places on local council tax payers and residents, and the inadequate state of children's services in the BCP area as reported by Ofsted. He also discussed a tragic case involving Tom Roberts, a young man killed by an asylum seeker who had been placed with unaccompanied minors despite evidence suggesting he was an adult, highlighting the need for robust age assessment measures to prevent such occurrences.

Government Response

The Minister Robert Jenrick acknowledged Conor Burns' concerns and paid tribute to Thomas Roberts. He stated that the perpetrator would be considered for deportation upon the end of his custodial sentence and that an investigation into the case is underway. The Minister emphasised the need for robust age assessment measures, considering scientific methods as used in other western democracies like Norway, Denmark, and Sweden. Jenrick also addressed the issue of hotel accommodation, noting there are currently around 650 supported asylum seekers in Bournemouth, mostly in temporary hotel accommodation. He acknowledged the frustration felt by local communities and committed to clearing the backlog of legacy outstanding initial decisions in the asylum system by the end of 2023. The Minister also mentioned plans for new legislation to deter illegal small boat crossings and highlighted the importance of targeted resettlement schemes for those genuinely fleeing persecution.