In the never ending saga of the future of the Whittington Barracks, an
asylum seekers camp has been ruled out at least for the time being. In
a letter to Michael Fabricant who has been probing the Government on
their intentions for the site, Don Touhig MP (Minister for Defence and
for Veterans) says: "Regarding the possibility of asylum seekers being
housed at Whittington Barracks, you will be aware that policy for
matters relating to asylum seekers is vested with the Home Secretary.

"The Ministry of Defence is unaware of any plans to set up an Asylum
Centre at Whittington Barracks and Home office officials have confirmed
that they have no plans for the site. I can assure you that I will
write to you with full details when the future of the barracks has been
decided."

Michael Fabricant now says: "Although the future of the barracks is
uncertain and plans can always change, this has to be good news for
people living in the area. Some home values have been blighted by the
spectre of an Asylum Camp being imported into Whittington. The
statement by the Minister should reassure potential home buyers in the
area."