§ Mr. WatersonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what contingency plans he has to house Kosovan refugees in British seaside resorts; and if he will make a statement.[80906]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienThe Government's priority remains to ensure that as far as possible, Kosovan refugees receive protection in the region so that they can return easily to their homes when it is safe for them to do so. However, contingency planning is well in hand if the United Kingdom needs to receive a programme of refugees from Kosovo.
We have no specific plans to house refugees in British seaside resorts, but are looking at accommodation throughout the United Kingdom that could be used for reception centres where refugees could be cared for prior to moving into more permanent accommodation.