Plans by the government to put up asylum seekers in boats and vessels moored across the country, including in the Royal Docks, have been slammed by Newham’s Mayor

By Newham Voices

A view of royal docks — Photo: BradleyStearn / shutterstock.com

Plans by the government to put up asylum seekers in boats and vessels moored across the country, including in the Royal Docks, have been slammed by Newham’s Mayor.

Rokhsana Fiaz accused prime minister Rishi Sunak and his government of “a cynical and repugnant response to the desperate plight facing people fleeing war, famine and torture”.

In a statement on June 8 she said: “As a Borough that welcomes refugees compassionately, we will resist these plans using all and any powers at our disposal.”

She said the Council was supporting the Royal Docks Management Authority which has rejected Home Office proposals to moor a vessel to house migrants and asylum seekers in the historic docks.

“The government’s flagrant disregard of international frameworks guiding the treatment of those vulnerable people fleeing persecution is inhumane,” said Fiaz.

“Those who have sought sanctuary in the UK should be able to live safely, with dignity and supported compassionately while awaiting decisions on their asylum claims.” She said putting hundreds of vulnerable people on moored vessels would damage their health and wellbeing, especially children and young people. At the same time, the plans would have “a calamitous impact” on public services.

“Newham has a proud history of welcoming people fleeing conflict and persecution in their home countries,” she said. “We intend to become a borough of sanctuary because we believe in the rights of refugees. They are welcome in Newham.”

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