Islington (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Islington Council has condemned a “despicable and cowardly attack” after a fire broke out at a central London hotel housing asylum seekers.
According to the Metropolitan Police, the fire happened in the property’s grounds in Dingley Road, Islington, just after 10.50 p.m. on Wednesday.
The force stated that the incident was being looked into as a hate crime and verified that the address was the Thistle City Barbican Hotel.
Before police arrived, hotel employees had extinguished the fire, and no one was hurt.
According to the force, officers are “working at pace” to identify a single suspect while keeping “an open mind” on any motive because they think it was an isolated event.
So far, no one has been arrested.
In a joint statement issued on Friday, Una O’Halloran, leader of Islington Council, and local MP Dame Emily Thornberry said:
“We utterly condemn this despicable and cowardly attack that has no place in our community or society.
Islington is a proud beacon of tolerance and diversity that welcomes people from all over the world. Anyone who seeks to divide us will fail. This kind of violence can never be the answer.
While we are relieved that nobody was hurt in this incident, we are aware that it could have been even more serious.
Islington is proud to be a borough of sanctuary and will always provide support for those fleeing war or persecution. Anyone who seeks to incite hatred or violence has no place in Islington.”
Extra support will be provided to the hotel’s residents and extra patrols of council and police officers will be made in the area over the coming days, the statement said.
Met Commander Hayley Sewart said:
“We recognise how concerning this incident will be for the local community. This is being treated as a hate crime and we are working at pace to locate the suspect.
The investigation is ongoing and we urge anyone with information to come forward and speak to police.”
Nine people were arrested after a protest and counter-protest took place outside the hotel in August.
What support is being offered to the hotel’s residents in Islington?
Provision of immediate safety and wellbeing support, including relocation support as necessary and additional welfare checks associated with the fire incident.
Provision of access to the Resident Support Scheme (RSS) which offers emergency financial assistance for food, fuel, household goods, or housing costs for residents in crisis.
Working with local charities such as Union Chapel, who provide befriending, community activities, and emotional support for asylum seekers who are housed in temporary accommodation. Increased council and police patrols in the area to improve safety and respond quickly to incidents.
Position of dignity and respect and call for quicker processing and improved accommodation for asylum seekers housed in hotels.