Murals of popular cartoon characters that were meant to welcome child asylum seekers to a reception center in Dover have been painted over under the instruction of immigration minister
Robert Jenrick. The decision to remove the murals was reportedly based on the belief that they conveyed a message that was too welcoming.
The Kent Intake Unit (KIU), which opened in November last year to provide care for unaccompanied child migrants, offered improved facilities such as softer interview rooms, outdoor spaces, prayer rooms, a larger reception area, and enhanced security measures for the safety of the children, according to the Home Office.
A spokesperson confirmed that the murals were removed on Tuesday and stated, "We do everything possible to ensure the safety, security, and support of children as we urgently seek placements with local authorities. Upon their arrival at the accommodation, all children undergo a welfare interview that includes questions designed to identify potential indicators of trafficking or safeguarding issues. Our priority is to prevent boats from crossing and disrupt the activities of people smugglers."
Labour's shadow immigration minister, Stephen Kinnock, criticized Mr. Jenrick's decision, describing the notion that removing the murals would somehow stop the influx of asylum seekers as "utterly absurd." He characterized it as a reflection of a "chaotic government in crisis" resorting to tough rhetoric and cruel policies due to their failed approach.
The i newspaper, the first to report the story, quoted sources stating that staff at the center were "horrified" by Mr. Jenrick's order and resisted carrying out the task.
A report published last month by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Prisons, following visits to KIU and the nearby processing centers at Manston and Western Jet Foil, acknowledged some improvements in facilities since previous inspections. However, the report also identified ongoing issues, including medical isolation practices at KIU, concluding that "Inspectors found no examples of notable positive practice during this inspection" at KIU.
The Home Office stated that it has taken steps to address some of the recommendations outlined in the report. Photo by Chris McAndrew, Wikimedia commons.