Dorset Council has welcomed the Home Office decision not renew the contract for the asylum seeker barge in Portland Harbour.

The council has campaigned for its removal – repeating its opposition to the barge at its July meeting held last week.

Extending the use of the Bibby Stockholm would have cost over £20 million next year. The barge will continue to be used until January 2025, but there will be no continuation of the contract beyond that.

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The Home Office say the money saved will be used to clear the backlog of asylum applications “Ending the use of the Bibby Stockholm forms part of the expected £7.7 billion of savings in asylum costs over the next ten years, as the Home Secretary takes action to restart asylum caseworking, clear the backlog and remove those with no right to be here.”

(Image: Graham Hunt Photography)

The Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Dame Angela Eagle MP said: “We are determined to restore order to the asylum system, so that it operates swiftly, firmly and fairly; and ensures the rules are properly enforced.

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“The Home Secretary has set out plans to start clearing the asylum backlog and making savings on accommodation which is running up vast bills for the taxpayer.

“The Bibby Stockholm will continue to be in use until the contract expires in January 2025.”

Dorset Council leader Nick Ireland said that he was delighted with the decision.

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It is alsos likely to be welcomed by local anti racist groups and those dedicated to helping the refugees who had asked Dorset Council to lobby for the barge contract not to be renewed.

Some of the campaigners, including barge residents, listened to Dorset Council debate the future of the barge last week.