The Home Office has faced criticism from MPs over its rushed approach to setting up asylum housing. The department’s decision-making process lacked adequate preparation, resulting in costly mistakes, the public accounts committee revealed.
MPs highlighted the Home Office’s hasty actions in utilizing disused barracks and a large barge to accommodate asylum seekers. The committee expressed concern over the lack of a solid plan and transparency regarding the department’s intentions to house asylum seekers in Rwanda.
Despite spending £230 million on establishing four large accommodation sites, including the Bibby Stockholm vessel and former RAF bases, the Home Office struggled to accurately estimate costs and occupancy rates. The committee noted that initial projections were far from the actual costs incurred, raising doubts about the department’s handling of taxpayers’ money.
Moreover, the Home Office’s shift from hotel accommodations to large sites failed to address the accommodation shortage adequately. Plans for accommodating asylum seekers at the Scampton RAF base were significantly downgraded, with the number reduced from 2,000 to 800.
The procurement process also came under scrutiny, with concerns raised about the lack of competition for suppliers, potentially affecting value for money. The committee’s report emphasized the necessity of transparency and accountability within the Home Office, questioning the department’s ability to manage significant projects effectively.
Amidst mounting criticism, the Home Office’s capability to execute the Rwanda partnership and comprehend associated costs is in question. Transparency issues, coupled with a track record of delivery challenges, have eroded confidence in the department’s operational efficiency.
The report urged the Home Office to reassess its approach to asylum housing, emphasizing the need for better planning, communication, and financial oversight. Asylum seeker accommodation remains a pressing issue that demands a strategic and well-thought-out response from the government.
