Fresh new row between Priti Patel and Suella Braverman over asylum seekers

Priti Patel MP Ex-home secretary Priti Patel has clashed with Suella Braverman over a new centre for asylum seekers. Ms Patel has raised a string of concerns with her successor about the Wethersfield site that opened last week, including inadequate medical screening before people arrive after an outbreak of scabies. The senior Tory has demanded to know the cost of supplying those staying there with cigarettes and vapes after reports of ‘tobacco shuttle runs’ to the shops. She said significant changes have also been slipped through allowing migrants to be housed there for up to nine months. In two letters to the Home Secretary, Ms Patel demanded to know why the maximum six month limit for accommodating people at the site has been increased to nine months and some exemptions mean it could be even longer. READ MORE: Relentless pursuit of Boris and Brexiteers has turned UK into a banana republic Ms Patel is concerned that dispersal arrangements have not been put in place that would ease the risks of housing pressures on local authorities in the part of Essex surrounding the site. She has warned that the Home Office is not on top of the issue and lacks a clear strategic plan. Council leader Graham Butland said the base ‘is not a suitable site for these plans’. The centre includes a GP surgery, a dining hall, a multi-faith centre, an indoor basketball court and a gym. Ms Patel raised concerns at the amount of money being spent on recreation and leisure, including new televisions and has asked for a breakdown of the costs. Home Secretary Suella Braverman The MP for Witham pointed out the ‘high quality’ of the accommodation and facilities on the Wethersfield site compared to those sometimes made available to members of our Armed Forces. Everyone who arrives at the Wethersfield site is presented with a welcome pack at the briefing centre. It contains toiletries and details, in a person’s own language, on ‘what it is to be a good neighbour’ and there are ongoing sessions about integrating into the community. The site is run by a contractor and manned 24/7 with CCTV cameras in place. SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info