Responding to the Home Office decision to close Penally camp, a former military camp used as accommodation for asylum seekers, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Home Affairs Alistair Carmichael MP said: “The Government have had to be shamed into acting when anyone with an ounce of compassion would have done this weeks ago. They have looked the other way for too long as asylum seekers are forced to stay in inhumane accommodation.
“The Conservative Government has treated these asylum seekers appallingly. True to their form during this pandemic, they have cut corners and ignored public health advice. Innocent asylum seekers have now been left to suffer.
“Closing Penally Camp should just be the start. There can be no more delay on closing Napier Barracks.
“Priti Patel must immediately find alternative accommodation for these people where social distancing is possible, with access to legal aid and medical assistance.”