Migrants to 'return in due course' to Dorset's Bibby Stockholm

The Home Office say water system checks show no signs of legionella

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 25th Sep 2023

Asylum seekers are set to return in due course to the Bibby Stockholm at Portland Port.

The Home Office have told us the latest tests show the water system in has no sign of legionella, which can lead to Legionnaire's Disease.

The first migrants spent only days on the barge last month, before being taken off as a precautionary measure.

No one became ill.

A Home Office spokesperson said:

“We are pleased to confirm that the latest tests have shown that there are no health risks from legionella on the Bibby Stockholm, with individuals set to return to the barge in due course.

“The welfare of asylum seekers is of paramount importance. It is right we went above and beyond UK Health Security Agency advice and disembarked asylum seekers as a precautionary measure whilst the issue was investigated.”

They've also said they 'continue to work with Dorset Council and other local partners'.

We're told the operation and maintenance of the water system will continue to be monitored by the Home Office, with regular testing.

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