Rishi Sunak said earlier that the Bibby Stockholm was going through a series of checks before the migrants came aboard.
"But let's take a step back, this is ultimately about fairness. I don't think it's fair that British taxpayers are forking out six million quid a day to house illegal migrants in hotels - I want to put an end to that."Inside the Bibby Stockholm barge.The barge's layout, which comprises 222 cabins of long, narrow corridors over three decks, has sparked serious safety concerns. There are two primary exits on board.
A Home Office spokesman said: "The Bibby Stockholm is undergoing final preparations to ensure it complies with all appropriate regulations before the arrival of the first asylum seekers. Fire safety manager Graham Kewley added: "We have provided advice and comment in relation to fire safety arrangements to both the Home Office and the vessels operators during our familiarisation and pre-occupation visits.