Protestors picketed a four-star hotel in a major London business district, amid rumours it was being set aside as housing for ‘small boat’ migrants, on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 22nd.
The Britannia International Hotel in Canary Wharf, London is now under Home Office control—as a potential ‘overflow’ for migrants. While rumours that men from the now-notorious Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex—once home to alleged sex offender Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu—are put up there are untrue, for now, the venue has been requisitioned to take in individuals currently housed in Kent.
Local Labour MP Apsana Begum has welcomed potential refugees to her constituency—while condemning ‘far-right’ critics. Police vans and a helicopter were on hand to prevent protestors from blocking the hotel entrance. No arrests were reported.
Tower Hamlets Borough Council ‘s Labour group also released a lengthy statement, affirming the area’s
long history of providing a safe haven for those fleeing religious or political persecution. As Labour councillors, we are proud of that history and believe Tower Hamlets should continue to play its part.
In March 2025, the average cost of one night at the hotel was reportedly £118.87 (€137.22).
