An internal government memo obtained by the Guardian through legal action suggests that high-ranking officials, including former Prime Ministers Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak, may be called to testify in an inquiry concerning the controversies at Manston, a processing center in Kent for individuals arriving via small boats. The memo, revealed during judicial review proceedings, indicates that an examination into conditions at Manston “will likely harm the Home Office’s reputation.” Manston, initially a military base, became overwhelmed in 2022, handling 4,000 people despite its capacity for only 1,600, leading to unsanitary conditions and the death of an Iraqi man from diphtheria. Detainees at the facility were identified by wristband numbers rather than names. In 2024, Home Secretary James Cleverly planned a public inquiry, but his successor, Yvette Cooper, scaled back this inquiry, limiting its ability to compel testimony from former officials. When GNM, BBC, and the Independent requested the memos used during the proceedings, the government refused; however, a court order by Mrs Justice Lang required the government to disclose the document, marking it as of significant public interest. The inquiry terms of reference, led by Sophie Cartwright KC, will include scrutinizing the conditions and treatment of asylum seekers at Manston, and whether

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/apr/07/johnson-and-sunak-may-be-asked-to-give-evidence-at-asylum-centre-inquiry