Murals featuring popular cartoon characters, including Mickey Mouse, which was designed to create a welcoming environment for child asylum seekers at a reception centre in Dover, have been ordered to be removed by the immigration minister, Robert Jenrick. According to reports, Jenrick believed that the murals sent too welcoming a message.

The Kent Intake Unit (KIU), established by the Home Office last November to care for unaccompanied child migrants, featured a range of facilities aimed at providing a supportive environment. These included softer interview rooms, an outdoor space, prayer rooms, a larger reception area, and improved security measures to ensure the safety of the children.

A spokesperson from the Home Office confirmed that the murals were removed on Tuesday, stating, “We do all we can to ensure children are safe, secure, and supported as we urgently seek placements with a local authority. Our priority is to stop the boats and disrupt the people smugglers.”

Labour’s shadow immigration minister, Stephen Kinnock, criticised the decision, calling it “absurd” to think that removing the murals would deter asylum seekers from crossing the English Channel. Kinnock characterized the move as a reflection of a “chaotic government in crisis” resorting to “tough talk and cruel and callous policies.” He emphasized Labour’s plan to address the issue through a comprehensive strategy that tackles criminal smuggler gangs and reduces the backlog of asylum cases.

Reports suggest that staff at the centre were “horrified” by Jenrick’s order and resisted carrying out the work. A recent report by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Prisons highlighted some improvements in facilities at KIU and nearby processing centres but also identified ongoing issues, including medical isolation practices. The report concluded that no notable positive practices were observed at KIU during the inspection. The Home Office stated that it has taken steps to address some of the recommendations provided in the report.