CASES of Covid-19 have once again been identified at a military barracks being used to house asylum-seekers, several months after a major outbreak at the camp – leading to renewed calls for the site to be closed immediately. 

The Home Office said a “small number” of infections have been found at Napier Barracks in Folkestone, Kent.

Nearly 200 people at the site contracted coronavirus earlier this year, leading to accusations that health advice had been ignored.

The site has been dogged by allegations of poor conditions in communal dormitories, with inspectors describing an isolation block as “unfit for habitation.”

The Home Office insisted again today that it would be an “insult” to suggest that Napier Barracks is not “adequate” for asylum-seekers.

Refugee campaigners in Britain hit out at the inhumane conditions facing those being held at Napier. 

The Refugee Council said in a statement: ​​”We are deeply concerned to hear the news of another Covid-19 outbreak at Napier Barracks. Nobody should have to live in conditions like these. 

“The government needs to close the barracks immediately and treat people seeking asylum with the dignity they deserve.”

Campaigners Liberty responded by claiming the barracks should be shut immediately. 

A Liberty statement said: “In June the High Court said the decision to house people there was irrational, accommodation is inadequate and Covid-19 outbreak inevitable.

“The government didn’t listen. Complete disregard for people’s health and wellbeing.

“Solidarity with everyone held at Napier.”

The Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants said that people’s health and lives are at risk and the government needs to shut the site.  

A spokesperson said: “No-one should be placed in this inhumane Covid-19 trap.”

The Home Office confirmed that those who tested positive have been removed from their dormitories but could not say if others are self-isolating.

Last month, Home Secretary Priti Patel and Home Office officials defended their decision to continue using the site to MPs as they confirmed that half of the people living there are sleeping in dormitories.

Concerns remain that the site could continue to be used for years to come. 

A spokesman said: “All appropriate Covid-19 protocols are being followed in accordance with Public Health England advice to manage the small number of cases currently at Napier Barracks.

“While pressure on the asylum system remains, we will use Napier Barracks to ensure we meet our statutory duty.”