SMALL boat migrants could be in line for thousands in Government compensation over conditions in detention.
Some 194 people have made claims on unlawful detention and breaches of the European Convention on Human Rights at the Manston migrant holding centre near Dover.
In 2022, the centre was overcrowded with outbreaks of diphtheria and scabies.
A 31-year-old Iraqi man called Hussein Haseeb Ahmed died after contracting diphtheria.
Legally the Home Office is allowed to hold migrants there for 24 hours before moving them on to other accommodation.
Thousands of people slept in tents and on dirty pieces of cardboard due to the lack of space.
Six law firms are representing the 194 who are seeking compensation for unlawful detention and breaches under the European Convention on Human Rights.
Compensation is usually £500 for every 24 hours someone is unlawfully detained.
Earlier this year the Home Office announced a public inquiry into what happened.
A Home Office spokesperson said: “It would be inappropriate to comment while the inquiry into events at Manston between June and November 2022, and any related litigation, are ongoing.”
It comes as ministers are considering housing migrants in disused army and RAF bases – despite the policy being scrapped by Labour.
The historic Dambusters site RAF Scampton could be opened as asylum accommodation even though plans to convert it were previously shelved.
Around £50 million of taxpayers’ money was spent on transforming the base but the plan was scrapped by Labour as it was not deemed to be value for money.
Armed Forces minister Luke Pollard said the Ministry of Defence is now reviewing all sites previously ditched by the Home Office.
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