Bibby Stockholm: MP calls for security stories on asylum barge because it nears Dorset dock

A Tory MP has demanded to see security stories for a barge that the federal government plans to make use of to deal with asylum seekers.

The Bibby Stockholm – which can accommodate 500 folks ready for choices on their functions – departed from Cornwall right this moment to go to its new dock at Portland Port in Dorset.

But Chris Loder, who represents West Dorset, claimed the determine was double the capability the barge had been designed to carry.

Mr Loder has known as on the house secretary to “stop” the vessel or present the assessments that present it’s “safe to cope with double the weight that it was designed to bear”.

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The authorities has been searching for out new lodging for asylum seekers, together with those that cross the Channel in small boats, claiming the resort invoice to deal with them has hit £6m a day.

As effectively because the barge, it has taken over former navy bases, and stories have even urged massive marquees may very well be used.

But ministers have confronted a backlash from native residents, councils and MPs if their areas have been chosen for the brand new websites.

Mr Loder, who has spoken out towards the Bibby Stockholm coming to his county, has now put pen to paper, writing to Home Secretary Suella Braverman and transport minister Baronness Vere along with his considerations over the security of the barge.

“For months, I have been asking for sight of the safety risk assessments that should have been done to allow the Bibby Stockholm to be used in Portland Harbour with 500 people on board whilst it was designed for 250,” he wrote.

“The Bibby Stockholm has now left Falmouth Dock. But visibility or assurances that adequate safety risk assessments have been completed have not been received.”

The MP additionally claimed that following a name with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, it was “clear they have also not undertaken that work, which we would typically expect them to do for a flagged vessel on water – which is what the Bibby Stockholm is”.

Mr Loder added: “I am writing to you this evening to ask that you either stop the Bibby Stockholm or that you provide the necessary safety risk assessments that confirm this vessel is safe to cope with double the weight that it was designed to bare.”

The transfer of the three-storey vessel is already a month not on time, after Ms Braverman instructed MPs it could be in Portland inside a fortnight on 5 June.

The 222-bedroom vessel comprises “basic” lodging, with healthcare provision, catering amenities and 24/7 safety, at a reported price of £20,000 a day, the Home Office stated again in May.

Dorset Council has been given £2m in a funding bundle to fulfill the price of offering providers to residents.

Sky News has contacted the Home Office for a response to Mr Loder’s claims.