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The Scottish Government has said it has been “left with unanswered questions” after meeting UK ministers to discuss housing asylum seekers at Cameron Barracks. Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said she was “disappointed” with her meeting with UK Asylum Minister Alex Norris as she is still in the dark on how the proposals will impact on health and policing in the Highlands. She said: “I was disappointed to still be left with unanswered questions following a meeting with Alex Norris on the Home Office’s plans to use Cameron Barracks to house people seeking asylum. “I have asked for urgent clarification from the UK Government on the impact on health, policing and other local services as we have not received the reassurances needed that there won’t be an increase in costs for services in the area. “The Home Office must provide urgent clarity to stop the spread of disinformation amongst communities in Inverness. First thing Monday to Friday, The Steamie newsletter bring you the best political news and analysis “Scotland welcomes refugees and people seeking asylum but it is vital that the Home Office provides clear communication and reassurances on the impact on local services.” A spokesman for the Scottish Government has also said answers are needed before Highland Council meets to discuss the proposal on Thursday. Last week the Home Office announced plans to house up to 300 male asylum seekers between the ages of 18 and 65 at the barracks in Inverness. The property has been secured from the Ministry of Defence on a 12 month lease. Ms Somerville is not the only MSP in Holyrood to write to the UK minister outlining concerns. Conservative MSP for the Highlands and Islands Edward Mountain wrote to Mr Norris urging him to be “honest” with the people of Inverness, and said “secrecy is the enemy of truth”. Mr Mountain has also asked the UK Government to clarify the impact the proposals will have on the local community, and to indicate whether NHS Highland and Highland Council will receive any additional funding to cope with the impact on public services. Read more: Sir Keir Starmer defends housing asylum seekers at Inverness base as Labour candidate calls plan 'bizarre' In his letter, seen by The Scotsman, he said: “I am sure you will agree that it is right and proper for us to discuss these issues, and any concerns surrounding them, openly and honestly, so that the correct provisions are in place. “My constituents deserve to be reassured that their concerns have been sufficiently considered. “It is also vital that we join together in making it clear that we both unequivocally condemn any racism and xenophobia.” He has also asked whether or not the barracks was considered as an option for housing homeless people from Inverness, and whether or not it will cost any money or require planning permissions to move in the asylum seekers. Last week Mr Norris said he understood the “strength of feeling” about the proposal to house hundreds of asylum seekers at Cameron Barracks and at Crowborough Barracks in East Sussex. Speaking in Westminster, he said: “There is a strong understanding within the Home Office about the importance of local engagement. “My officials have been engaging directly with the Scottish Government, relevant councils and local service providers and will continue to do so.” The 140-year-old Cameron Barracks was previously used to house Afghan refugees who had assisted the UK armed forces. Both Highland Council and the UK Home Office have been approached for comment.
