First 50 people coming to Bibby Stockholm asylum barge despite safety worries

Fire safety concerns and lack of lifejackets noted on the 500-capacity barge, moored in Portland, Dorset

Ministers are planning to send the first 50 people to a controversial barge used for housing asylum seekers next Tuesday, but there have been fresh calls for a delay over safety concerns.

The government has already been forced to push back the planned start date for commencing operations on the Bibby Stockholm, which ministers hope will reduce the costs of accommodating those who cross the Channel on small boats.