Jeremy Corbyn has criticised Sir Keir Starmer for displaying “political cowardice” after the party declared its intention to continue accommodating asylum seekers on barges if it secures victory in the upcoming election.
The former head of the Labour Party condemned the use of vessels as “morally indefensible.” This criticism arises as the initial group of asylum seekers arrived aboard the contentious Bibby Stockholm vessel in Dorset this morning, with additional arrivals anticipated throughout the day.
The Bibby Stockholm is just one among various alternative sites employed by the Home Office to reduce dependency on costly hotels for housing asylum seekers, which the government asserts is incurring a daily expense of £6 million to taxpayers.
Over the weekend, Shadow Immigration Minister Stephen Kinnock conceded that Labour would be compelled to persist with utilizing these alternative sites due to the “chaos” left behind by the Conservative government. Nevertheless, Kinnock assured that the party would prioritize the prompt relocation of asylum seekers away from hotels, barges, and military installations.
International Trade Secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds reiterated Labour’s standpoint, stating “We need to address the challenges we inherit, but our objective is to diminish the backlog to the extent that we no longer require barges, bases, or hotels. This isn’t about lowering expectations; it’s about honestly acknowledging the disorder we will inherit while outlining the direction we intend to pursue – one that benefits both those ensnared in the system and the taxpayer.”
Mr. Corbyn, however, shared a differing perspective during an interview with Sky News: “Forcing individuals who have fled war and persecution to inhabit unsafe, overcrowded prison ships is morally indefensible. Similarly unjust is the failure to provide a more compassionate alternative. These individuals are lawfully and rightfully exercising their asylum rights. Our duty is to uphold, not belittle, that right. Political timidity carries consequences, and the most vulnerable will bear the brunt.”
He added: “This is why I am honored to stand alongside constituents advocating for an immigration system centered on respect and concern.” To date, no backbench Labour MPs have publicly voiced concordance with Mr. Corbyn, who was stripped of his party whip in 2020.
The Bibby Stockholm has faced substantial local opposition due to concerns about the well-being of asylum seekers and the strain on local services. Charitable organisations have also expressed reservations regarding the suitability of such sites for those seeking asylum.
Natasha Tsangarides, associate director of advocacy at Freedom from Torture, voiced her concern, stating: “Inhumane lodging schemes like barges and tents are entirely inappropriate for individuals who have escaped torture and conflict.”
Join us in helping to bring reality and decency back by SUBSCRIBING to our Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1Ll1ylCg8U19AhNl-NoTg and SUPPORTING US where you can: Award Winning Independent Citizen Media Needs Your Help. PLEASE SUPPORT US FOR JUST £2 A MONTH https://dorseteye.com/donate/
