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Protesters gathered outside the Britannia International Hotel in Canary Wharf today following unconfirmed reports that the venue was being used to house asylum seekers. The demonstration prompted a visible police presence and drew comparisons to similar unrest in Essex last week.
The announcement was later confirmed by Tower Hamlets Council, which issued a statement acknowledging the Home Office’s decision to use the Britannia Hotel in Marsh Wall for temporary accommodation of asylum seekers.
Council Confirms Use of Hotel for Asylum Accommodation
A Tower Hamlets Council spokesperson said:
“We are aware of the Government’s decision to use the Britannia Hotel in Canary Wharf to provide temporary accommodation for asylum seekers.
It is important that the Government ensures that there is a full package of support for those staying at the hotel.
We are working with the Home Office and partners to make sure that all necessary safety and safeguarding arrangements are in place.
Police Presence and Protest Details
Photos and footage from the scene show police officers standing side-by-side outside the entrance to the Britannia International Hotel while protesters waved flags and held placards.
The protest remained largely peaceful, although tensions were reported online, with some residents voicing unease over the lack of prior consultation.
Context: Epping Protests and Legal Case Spark National Tensions
The protest follows a string of demonstrations outside hotels housing asylum seekers, including in Epping, where a recent protest at the Bell Hotel turned violent. Essex Police described the events there as “mindless thuggery”.
Those protests were in response to the case of Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old asylum seeker who was charged with sexual assault following an alleged attempt to kiss a 14-year-old girl. He denied the charge when he appeared before Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 17 July.
Hotel Unavailable for Public Bookings
As of Monday evening, Booking.com lists the Britannia International Hotel as unavailable, stating that “it is currently not possible to make reservations”—a move believed to be linked to the recent Home Office arrangements.
Summary:
- Protest held outside Britannia Hotel, Marsh Wall
- Hotel confirmed to be used for asylum seeker accommodation
- Police deployed to manage demonstration
- Similar protests occurred in Epping after high-profile court case
- Public bookings for the hotel suspended.
