


Starmer's list of towns where taxpayers could pay rent for Channel migrants - Is your area impacted?

The full list of towns and cities where taxpayers could end up paying the rent for Channel crossing migrants has been revealed.
According to the website of Serco, one of three private contractors working for the Home Office, the firm's full dispersal portfolio currently spans across 120 local authorities.
It comes just hours after Serco was revealed to be offering landlords five-year guaranteed full rent deals at the taxpayer's expense.
The list is split into three areas, the North West, the Midlands and the East of England, with Serco admitting: "We are continuing to work with new Local Authorities across our region to extend the Serco footprint." However, the company's website also stated: "All areas are currently closed for Procurement in the North West."
Is your town impacted? Read the full lists below.
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This push comes after a new record for daily small boat arrivals was set earlier this monthPA
A 'refugees welcome' banner attached to a bicycle by a small flotilla of boats leaving Bristol harbour
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Home Office figures reveal contractors are now responsible for housing 65,700 asylum seekers, a 10-year highPA
There are approximately 1.3 million people on the social housing waiting list as cheaper private rented accommodation is in high demand.
One council leader told LBC: "It’s Serco who are encouraging landlords to exploit taxpayers, then it’s blamed on councils because of the impact it has on local rents, services and social cohesion. I don’t think it’s good for the fabric of society or the individuals involved."
A Home Office spokesman said the department is "intensifying" collaboration with France and other countries over tackling gangs' business models, and introducing tougher enforcement powers under new legislation.