Britain’s immigration system is facing heavy criticism once again, as new reports reveal that the government is offering private landlords long-term rental agreements to house asylum seekers. According to the Telegraph, the Home Office is working with private contractor Serco to attract landlords by offering guaranteed rent, property maintenance, and covering all utility and council bills. Events have even been organized at four-star hotels to pitch the scheme to investors across parts of England.
Although the Home Office later distanced itself from the plan, stating that it aims to “restore order” to the asylum system and cut costs for taxpayers, public concern remains. With migrant crossings via small boats reaching record numbers in early 2025, spending on asylum seeker accommodation has become a major issue. Recent data shows that housing migrants in hotels costs about £145 per night, compared to just £14 a night using private rentals.
While moving asylum seekers to homes is cheaper, critics argue it strikes a major blow to Britain’s social contract. Many British citizens, especially the young and working class, are already struggling with a severe housing crisis. They face the highest tax burden since World War II while finding it nearly impossible to afford homes. Meanwhile, new arrivals, many of whom claim asylum shortly after entering illegally, are being offered housing, healthcare, education, and weekly cash support.
Why is Starmer’s migrant housing plan seen as unfair?
Critics argue the plan is unfair because it offers free accommodation to new migrants, while British citizens, who have contributed to the system through taxes, are struggling to afford homes themselves.
The anger grows as house prices continue to soar to over eight times the average salary. Citizens who pay taxes expect support when needed, but many now feel abandoned as the government buys up private rental homes for asylum seekers. There is growing resentment over migrants receiving better housing opportunities within weeks of arrival, while local families are priced out of their own communities.
While Serco’s rental program may save the government money in the short term, the long-term impact could be disastrous. Many believe the plan will only encourage more migrants to make dangerous journeys across the Channel, adding even more strain to an already overwhelmed system.
Despite promises to tackle the migrant crisis, Labour has struggled to reduce the factors that draw migrants to the UK. As attitudes towards migration harden across Europe, Britain’s housing strategy could further fuel division and public outrage if not urgently reconsidered.