Bibby Stockholm: Asylum seeker on board barge dies

An asylum seeker on board the Bibby Stockholm barge in Dorset has died.

The three-storey barge, docked off Portland, houses people awaiting the outcome of their asylum applications and has capacity for up to 500 men.

The Home Office said it was aware of reports of an incident involving an asylum seeker on board.

Steve Smith, CEO of refugee charity Care4Calais, said: "Our thoughts are with the person who has lost their life, their family and their friends."

He said those on board the Bibby Stockholm "will be experiencing a deep feeling of grief and worry today," adding: "The UK government must take responsibility for this human tragedy."

The vessel was first used for accommodating asylum seekers in August but was evacuated after Legionella bacteria was found in the water supply, with people returning to it in October.