A person has died aboard the Bibby Stockholm barge, used by the British government to house asylum seekers.
Two care groups working to support migrants on the vessel — moored in Portland, Dorset — confirmed to POLITICO Tuesday that one of the people aboard had died.
The U.K.’s Home Office said: “We are aware of reporting of an incident involving an asylum seeker on the Bibby Stockholm.
“It would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.”
Steve Smith, CEO of refugee charity Care4Calais, said the group’s “thoughts are with the person who has lost their life, their family and their friends. It is also with all those stuck on board the Bibby Stockholm who will be experiencing a deep feeling of grief and worry today.”
The U.K. government deployed the Bibby Stockholm over the summer amid deep controversy.
It argued the use of the barge would cut the mounting cost of housing asylum seekers in hotels while their claims are processed, and would deter people from making dangerous crossings to the U.K.
Concerns about the welfare of those aboard have previously been raised by groups working with asylum seekers. Smith urged the U.K. government Tuesday to “take responsibility for this human tragedy.”
This developing story is being updated.
