Limit cell occupancy to maximum two people
The Home Office must ensure that a maximum of two detained people are accommodated in each cell at Brook House.
- No published independent inspection of cell occupancy at Brook House has been identified since the government response.
How was this evidence gathered?
Response
Accepted in Part
Response
Accepted in PartAll rooms across the removal estate meet standards under Rule 15(1) of the Detention Centre Rules 2001. At Brook House, no room designed for two individuals houses more than two, with no plans to change this.
Progress Timeline
Angela Eagle, Written PQ 23170 (15 January 2025): 'Completed and closed as of October 2024.'
Published Evidence
Published assessments of progress from inspectorates, select committees, official progress reports, and other sources. Source type badge indicates whether each assessment is independent or government self-reported.
Rolling refurbishment of units and upgraded library described as "relaxed and welcoming space". However, cells remain inadequately ventilated with sealed windows.
View detailed findings
Based on Independent Review of Progress visit in August 2025, following up 13 concerns from August 2024 inspection. Brook House run by Serco held 192 detainees at time of visit.
Inquiry Chair Kate Eves described government response as "inadequate" and called for a "reset" with the new government. Warned abuse "becomes a question of when, not if" it happens again.
View detailed findings
In September 2024, Kate Eves told Channel 4 News she was "disappointed with what I see as an inadequate response by the former government to an important report." She noted the inquiry cost about £20 million over four years. Home Office lawyers had argued her "recommendations are not binding."