Refugees Accommodation 2023-02-06
2023-02-06
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from the concern over using hotels for asylum seekers and the impact on local businesses. A Best Western hotel in Buckingham has been used under a six-month lease due to end in March, raising concerns about its future.
What progress she has made in ending the use of hotels as contingency asylum accommodation? The loss of the Best Western hotel in Buckingham is noticeable, with primary care resources diverted. Can my right hon Friend confirm that the use of the Best Western in Buckingham will end soon?
We are working with local councils and providers to develop regional dispersal plans. The Home Secretary and I want to ensure hotels such as the one in his constituency are exited as swiftly as possible by pursuing a full dispersal model. Further legislation will be brought forward soon.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline or plan for ending use of the Best Western hotel
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Following the invasion of Ukraine, many people welcomed refugees with open arms. However, many have outstayed their time with their hosts and need a coherent plan going forward.
When the dreadful invasion of Ukraine took place, many people welcomed refugees with open arms. Does he agree that it is still not safe for many to go home? Many have outstayed their time with their host, so can we have a coherent plan going forward to ensure refugees from Ukraine are decently protected and housed?
Over 500 individuals continue to come to the UK every week under the Ukrainian visa schemes. We are working closely with the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to ensure seamless changes so that nobody ends up homeless.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific details about a coherent plan
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Best Western hotel in the town of Buckingham was originally acquired on a six-month lease, diverting primary care resources. The community is concerned about its future after March.
The loss of the Best Western hotel as a valuable local business is noticeable in the town. Can my right hon Friend confirm that the use of the Best Western in Buckingham will end soon?
We are pursuing a full dispersal model with local authorities and considering other options. The task is to stop boats arriving illegally, otherwise we will continue to have troubles like this in years ahead.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline or plan for ending use of the Best Western hotel
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
There is a former Atkinson Court care home in east Leeds that could potentially be used for dispersal of asylum seekers. The question seeks confirmation on its use.
Do the Government have any plans to make use of the former Atkinson Court care home in east Leeds as part of their dispersal policy?
The mandatory dispersal model involves agreement with local authorities to choose appropriate sites. I am happy to revert on that specific site in Leeds South.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific confirmation about using the former Atkinson Court care home
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
There are reports that a Pontins holiday camp in the constituency is under consideration for housing asylum seekers. The MP asks for confirmation.
Does my right hon Friend agree it would not be appropriate to house asylum seekers at Pontins holiday camp? Will he confirm the reports that the site will not proceed?
The Home Office is reviewing options and having exploratory conversations. If Sefton Council does not wish to proceed with the Pontins site, it will not do so.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific confirmation about using the Pontins holiday camp
Response accuracy
Q6
Partial Answer
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Context
Community InfoSource found that Mears' practices are retraumatising and causing stress. The MP questions the government's encouragement of companies profiting from misery.
Home Office accommodation provider Mears has made significant profits providing substandard facilities for asylum seekers. Community InfoSource in Glasgow found that Mears' practices are retraumatising and causing unnecessary stress and suffering. Why are the UK Government encouraging rapacious companies to profit?
If specific allegations exist, bring them forward for investigation. The task is for local authorities in Scotland and across the country to step up and provide more accommodation.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions against Mears or addressing community concerns directly
Response accuracy