An MP was stunned after the government admitted almost 200 asylum seekers caught COVID while staying in dormitory accommodation at a former Army barracks.

Labour MP Yvette Cooper said “Oh my god!’ when Permanent Secretary Matthew Rycroft confirmed to the Home Affairs Committee on Wednesday there was a total of 178 positive tests in January and 19 in February at Napier Barracks in Kent.

It has been used as “emergency” accommodation since September last year, despite significant welfare concerns.