The Liverpool company behind a barge at the centre of the government's controversial plans to house asylum seekers off the Dorset coast has responded to criticism.
This week the Home Office said “basic and functional accommodation” would be provided on the Bibby Stockholm vessel along with 24-hour security. The government is planning to use the vessel
The Home Office is planning to use the Bibby Stockholm vessel to house migrants who are waiting for asylum decisions in a bid to reduce the reliance on hotels.
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Charities and asylum organisations have described the Bibby Stockholm barge and similar vessels as "wholly inadequate places" to house people who are fleeing war and persecution. Amnesty International described the plan as "ministerial cruelty."
The government could also face legal action from Conservative MPs over the controversial plans.
The vessel in question is owned by Bibby Marine Limited, a niche marine assets firm headquartered in Liverpool.
The three-storey Bibby Stockholm - which has 222 rooms and can house more than 500 people - has been refurbished since it was criticised as an "oppressive environment" when the Dutch government used it for asylum seekers.
Responding to questions and criticisms over the boat, a spokesperson for the company said: "Bibby Marine is a provider of practical, safe, and comfortable accommodation solutions for a wide range of clients across the globe.
"Due to legal agreements, we cannot provide any details on individual charter agreements.
"Our floating accommodation barges offer a cost-effective solution for those in need of good quality accommodation. All have been refurbished to a high standard, catering to the safety and comfort of residents."
The spokesperson added: "The Bibby Stockholm offers ensuite rooms, all with windows, which can be configured to suit clients' needs. Each room has a bed, desk, storage and ensuite facilities. Onboard there is also a laundry, canteen, and social spaces.
"The Bibby Stockholm has been refurbished and has comfortably housed workers from various industries including construction, marine and the armed forces over the years."
A Home Office spokesperson said: "The pressure on the asylum system has continued to grow and requires us to look at a range of accommodation options which offer better value for money for taxpayers than hotels."
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