A controversial barge that is set to accommodate 500 asylum seekers has arrived in Dorset.

The Bibby Stockholm departed Falmouth in Cornwall on Monday – one month behind schedule.

Its arrival in Dorset – which has been opposed by the local MP and residents – comes hours after the government’s Illegal Migration Bill passed the Lords.

The first asylum seekers are expected to board the Bibby Stockholm later this month.

Downing Street has defended the use of barges to house migrants – insisting it is a cheaper alternative to accommodating them in hotels.

The prime minister’s official spokesman told reporters: “I think it’s right for the public as a whole that we move away from a situation where £6m a day of taxpayers’ money is going towards housing these individuals in hotels.

“That’s not a good use of money and obviously that puts unplanned pressure on local areas as well.

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“We think it is better to open specific sites designed to house immigrants that come in, done in a more planned way.

“That’s what we are seeking to do with the Bibby Stockholm and that’s what we’re seeking to do in other parts of the country – opening up sites to take the pressure off local areas and to reduce the cost.”

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