Robert Jenrick – 2022 Statement on Harmondsworth Immigration Removal Centre

The statement made by Robert Jenrick, the Immigration Minister, on 5 November 2022.

There was disruption overnight at Harmondsworth Immigration Removal Centre after a loss of power.

Thankfully no staff working or individuals detained there were hurt, despite clear evidence of unacceptable levels of violence and disorder.

The public should be reassured that offenders and others waiting removal from the UK are being held securely. The perpetrators of this disturbance will be held to account and, where appropriate, removed from the country as swiftly as is practicable.

The Home Secretary and I have been kept abreast of events throughout the night and today by our hard-working teams.

I have visited the site tonight and I expect the centre to be empty by the end of the day.

I am grateful to Home Office staff, contractors and officers from HMPPS and the Metropolitan police for their professionalism and practical support.