The UK Home Office is expected to announce the phasing-out of luxury four and five-star hotels for migrants crossing the English Channel, as the country prepares for next year's election. This decision comes as there has been a significant decrease in the number of migrants making the perilous journey across the Channel. The move will free up resources and accommodation for other purposes, including housing for asylum seekers and efforts to clear the asylum backlog.
Decrease in Crossings
This year, the number of migrants crossing the Channel has dropped compared to the same period last year. So far, 26,116 migrants have made the journey in 2022, in contrast to 37,575 by this point in 2021. While there were concerns that the number of crossings would reach 67,000 in 2023, the Border Force now estimates it to be around 30,000 for the year.
Hotel Contracts Not to be Renewed
As a result of the decrease in crossings, the Home Office will allow a number of contracts with hotel groups to expire and will not be renewing them. This means that luxury hotels, including the four-star Novotel Hotel in Ipswich, Suffolk, and the three-star Westone Manor Hotel in Northampton, will no longer be used to house migrants. These hotels are located in key seats that the Conservative Party needs to hold in the upcoming election.
MPs' Response
Local Members of Parliament (MPs) have faced criticism from locals who have seen hotels in their constituencies block-booked for migrants for months. The decision to end the use of luxury hotels for migrants will likely be welcomed by these constituents. MP Tom Hunt, representing Ipswich, expressed his support for the move, stating that it is in the best interest of the community. Ipswich is one of the most marginal seats in Britain, with a Tory majority of 5,579.
Future Plans
In January, Borders Minister Robert Jenrick is expected to announce the first 50 hotels that will no longer house migrants. The government is also working on converting larger ex-military sites to accommodate asylum seekers as part of its efforts to address the current situation.
