Source · Select Committees · Home Affairs Committee
Recommendation 10
10
Deferred
Give Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration access to commercial contracts for proper scrutiny.
Conclusion
The Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration should be given access to commercial contracts so they can be properly scrutinised. The legislation underpinning the Inspector’s role should be amended if necessary to achieve this. (Recommendation, Paragraph 56) 97
Government Response Summary
The government responded by outlining contractual obligations for providers to notify asylum seekers of accommodation moves with at least five days' notice, and the provision of induction booklets and Migrant Help access, rather than addressing the Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration's access to commercial contracts.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
Section 4.2.2 of the AASC Schedule 2 of the Statement of Requirement sets out the contractual obligation of Home Office service providers to notify asylum seekers of any moves, which is underpinned by a service level agreement of at least five days. Our accommodation providers are clear on their contractual obligations and processes are in place when communicating with asylum seekers ahead of accommodation moves, and that all information requiring upcoming moves is understood. This is reviewed during inspections carried out by the Department. Additionally, all asylum seekers are provided with an induction booklet which sets out how the asylum process works, and they also have 24/7 access to Migrant Help for any further advice or complaints. As part of regular contract management meetings, service delivery managers will continue to ensure that service providers are meeting these contractual obligations. To deliver our ambition of exiting hotels before the end of the Parliament there will be a requirement to move asylum seekers into alternative accommodation to maximise estate utilisation. The contractual obligations of Home Office’s service providers will continue throughout this period. Advice, Issue Reporting and Eligibility (AIRE) service