An asylum seeker on the Bibby Stockholm barge has died, PA understands.
The Bibby Stockholm, docked in Portland Port in Dorset, is one of a number of alternative sites the Home Office is using to end reliance on expensive hotels for asylum seekers.
Further details concerning the incident are yet to be confirmed, including the individual’s age and country of origin.
The first asylum seekers were moved back to the vessel in October some two months after it was evacuated following the discovery of Legionella bacteria in the water supply.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer was asked about the incident during a speech in Buckinghamshire.
Although he said he wasn’t yet aware of the details, he said his “heart goes out the family and friends of an individual who has lost their life”.
In a statement the refugee charity Care4Calais, said: “Our thoughts are with the person who has lost their life, their family and their friends”.
“It is also with all those stuck on board the Bibby Stockholm who will be experiencing a deep feeling of grief and worry today,” said Care4Calais CEO Steve Smith.
Legionella bacteria, which can lead to the deadly lung infection Legionnaires’ disease, were found on board the vessel in August.
The barge, which can house up to 500 people, is among a number of controversial accommodation options the government has begun rolling out to provide cheaper alternative housing for migrants awaiting the processing of asylum applications – including former military bases.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has made cracking down on illegal migration one of his key priorities, with MPs due to vote on his flagship Rwanda bill later on Tuesday.
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William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
