Migrants move back on to the Bibby Stockholm barge as Suella issues warning to men refusing to board

MIGRANTS were moved BACK on to the Bibby Stockholm today after the giant barge was given the all clear from health officials.

For two months the vessel had sat empty after deadly legionella bacteria was found on board.

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People thought to be asylum seekers board the Bibby Stockholm accommodation barge at Portland Port in Dorset[/caption]

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Earlier today supplies could be seen taken on to the vessel[/caption]

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Around 30 protestors gathered in Portland near to the entrance of the barge[/caption]

The Home Office confirmed today that tests for the bacteria, as well as improved fire safety protocols, have been completed.

Around 38 migrants have been told to move back on the ship.

But some of them are reportedly refusing to do so.

Today Home Secretary Suella Braverman announced a new set of strict rules for migrants not wanting to board.

First, they will be evicted from their taxpayer funded hotel within 24 hours and treated like a trespasser if they don’t leave.

Then they will be given 5 days to take up bed on the Bibby or else accommodation support will be scrapped altogether.

A Home Office spokesperson said: “From today, we are beginning to move people back on to the Bibby Stockholm in Portland.

“All necessary tests including health, fire and water checks have been completed, and are all satisfactory. 

“The number of people on board will increase gradually with more arrivals in the coming days and months, as part of a carefully structured, phased approach.  

“This is part of the government’s pledge to reduce the use of expensive hotels and bring forward alternative accommodation options which provide a more cost effective, sustainable and manageable system for the UK taxpayer and local communities.”

As migrants arrived back at the barge they were met by a group of around 30 protestors holding banners saying “Scrap the prison barge! Refugees welcome”.

It comes as the migrant hotel bill for taxpayers hit £8m last month.

And the total cost of Britain’s creaking asylum and accommodation system now tops £3 billion.