Written question asked by Richard Drax (Conservative) on Wednesday, 19 April 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 3 May 2023 (named day). It was answered by Robert Jenrick (Conservative) on Wednesday, 3 May 2023 on behalf of the Home Office.

Migrants: Portland

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, whether her Department has carried out a risk assessment of asylum seekers' welfare (a) on board and (b) off the proposed barge accommodation centres.

Answer: Every resident at Manston undergoes security checks and screening for health issues. Treatment is given where appropriate. We will assess an individual’s suitability to reside at Portland prior to placement there and continue to assess each person’s suitability at regular intervals whilst on the vessel. We will only accommodate single adult males who are considered suitable to reside there. There are plans for basic medical services to be provided onsite at Portland. All asylum seekers in the UK may contact Migrant Help 24 hours a day 365 days a year if they need help, advice, or guidance raising issues relating to safeguarding.

Secondary information