In recent weeks I’ve been contacted by many in our community who have shared their serious concerns about the UK’s ongoing mistreatment of refugees, particularly the Government’s decision to house refugees in disused military barracks.

This is completely unacceptable. Labour firmly believes that the UK should be a welcoming and accepting place for refugees fleeing appalling circumstances in their home countries, as the shadow Home Secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds has recently made clear .

This has to include ensuring that the accommodation provided for refugees and asylum seekers is fit for their needs. I’ve raised this with the Home Secretary and urged her to reconsider the use of the barracks.

Here’s the response I’ve received from the Minister.