Portsmouth, Southampton Deny Landing to 120 Migrants as Eastney Protest Blocks Coaches
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Sep 8
Portsmouth, Southampton Deny Landing to 120 Migrants as Eastney Protest Blocks Coaches
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Sep 8
Summary
Two RNLI boats carrying 120 migrants intercepted off the Isle of Wight were refused entry by Portsmouth harbour and Southampton Port before landing at Eastney in Langstone Harbour on Sunday.
Southampton operator ABP said it was not the closest port and lacked suitable reception facilities, while the King's Harbour Master Portsmouth also declined a coastguard request and would not comment on operations.
Hundreds of anti-migrant protesters then blocked Eastney's only access road, trapping coaches and creating a stand-off that lasted into the early hours of Monday.
RNLI said the overloaded boats had to travel slowly after the rescue near Nab Tower and criticized the denied access and communication with volunteer crews.
Portsmouth council and local MPs blamed poor Home Office planning and information gaps, while a minister said the government would review what happened after the Solent incident.