Comment on dispersal of asylum seekers from Manston

Talking about the dispersal of asylum seekers from Manston, Professor Jim McManus, President of the Association of Directors of Public Health, has urged the Government to work collaboratively, saying:

“As local leaders for the nation’s health, directors of public health are committed to working constructively and effectively with all our national and local partners for the good of everybody.

“Unfortunately, our experience so far of the dispersal of asylum seekers from Manston is that we have had no direct engagement from the Home Office and, although we have offered our support, we have not yet received a response.

“Sadly, the current situation could and should have been prevented through joint working and it is entirely arguable that the lack of information, co-ordination and engagement from the Home Office has made the situation far worse than it could have been.

“While there is very low risk to the public – and there is certainly no need for the public to be concerned – the lack of communication and collaboration has put both asylum seekers and potentially hotel workers at avoidable and preventable risk. It has also created additional and preventable burdens on already stretched local health systems.

“We remain committed to working with the Government and are ready to support with the dispersal from Manston to help ensure that everyone involved is protected from further disease.”