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Asylum Seeker Accommodation Off Wirral Peninsula
25 May 2023
Lead MP
Mick Whitley
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
Asylum & RefugeesUkraineStandards & EthicsLocal Government
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Mick Whitley raised concerns about asylum seeker accommodation off wirral peninsula in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
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.
The debate is about dignity and respect, hoping the Home Office will be mindful of that.
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.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.