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Home Office mismanagement and incompetence have led to billions of pounds being squandered on asylum hotel contracts, according to a report by the Home Affairs Committee. The projected cost of asylum accommodation contracts between 2019-2029 has more than tripled from £4.5bn to £15.3bn, with millions in excess profits owed by providers yet to be reclaimed. MPs criticised the Home Office for its heavy reliance on costly hotels, signing contracts “in a rush” with little accountability and neglecting basic oversight. Dame Karen Bradley, Chair of the Home Affairs Committee, called for urgent action to reduce costs and address local concerns, accusing the Home Office of a short-term, reactive approach. The report highlighted that the average cost per person per night in an asylum hotel is £144.98, significantly higher than other dispersal accommodation, and warned against high-risk policy solutions.
