Asylum Seeker Accommodation Off Wirral Peninsula

Opened the debate

The MP raised significant concerns about the Government's proposal to house up to 1,500 vulnerable asylum seekers on a vessel in Birkenhead. He highlighted that Wirral Council has been informed of the Home Office's plans and noted the potential impact on local services and community cohesion. The proposed location is the £4.5 million Wirral Waters development site, which could delay ongoing regeneration efforts. Whitley stressed his support for refugees but criticised the Government's approach as inhumane, citing the need for dignity and respect towards those seeking refuge. He questioned the Home Office's transparency and engagement with local authorities and called on the Government to address health needs, provide financial support to Wirral Council, ensure access to services, and guarantee physical safety for the refugees.

Government Response

The Minister acknowledged the concerns raised by the MP and outlined plans to engage with local stakeholders through a multi-agency forum. He stated that the vessel would not be a detained facility but rather a non-detained one, allowing asylum seekers some freedom within managed constraints. Jenrick noted similar approaches in Europe and highlighted the success of such arrangements for Ukrainian refugees in Leith, Edinburgh. The Minister assured that the vessel’s use at Birkenhead or elsewhere would be temporary (around 18 months) and reiterated the Government's commitment to supporting local regeneration projects like Wirral Waters. Funding will be provided to Wirral Council and Merseyside police to cover costs associated with housing refugees. Additionally, measures are in place for healthcare provision and disease prevention on the vessel.