Yvette Cooper’s plans to reopen immigration detention centre opposed by Labour-led council
Home secretary Yvette Cooper’s proposal to reopen a controversial immigration centre is facing formal opposition from the local council. Ms Cooper is moving forward with plans originally announced by the Conservatives to reopen Campsfield and Haslar Immigration Removal Centres as part of an effort to achieve the highest rate of removals since 2018. Campsfield House, located near Kidlington in Oxfordshire, was shut down in 2019, and its potential reopening has been met with resistance from migrant charities and local MPs.
Oxford City Council, which is led by a minority Labour administration, recently passed a motion expressing their strong opposition to the plans. The motion, put forth on Monday evening, emphasised the council’s history of welcoming refugees and its stance against detention. Council members stated that the proposed plans indicate a concerning direction for the government, one that clashes with the city’s commitment to advocating for the rights of asylum seekers.
The council called for the establishment of more safe and legal pathways for refugees to seek asylum and urged the Labour government to adopt a more compassionate approach to immigration policy. They intend to communicate their dissent to the government through a written message. While the council’s motion does not hold binding power over the Home Office, ministers can proceed with the plans despite the local opposition from Labour councillors.
Various charities have also voiced their disapproval of the plans, with Refugee Council CEO Enver Solomon suggesting that resources should be directed towards voluntary returns programmes instead of expanding detention facilities. Concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of detention centres, with past inquiries revealing issues such as a toxic culture among staff and breaches of human rights laws.
Campsfield House experienced a significant fire in 2013, leading to the relocation of individuals and prompting safety concerns. Additionally, several asylum seekers tragically lost their lives while at the facility. The Home Office has been approached for comment on the matter.
Yvette Cooper’s initiative to reopen an immigration detention centre is met with resistance from the Labour-led council in Oxfordshire, highlighting ongoing debates surrounding immigration policies and the treatment of asylum seekers within the UK.