Current status: Answered by Shirley-Anne Somerville on 17 February 2026
To ask the Scottish Government what discussions it has had with the Home Office regarding its plans for Cameron barracks in Inverness, including clarifications on the expected duration of use, operational arrangements and impacts on local services, and whether it will provide details of any representations it has made.
I met Alex Norris, UK Minister for Border Security and Asylum, on 4 November and 15 December 2025 to seek clarity on Home Office plans to use Cameron Barracks as asylum accommodation.
The Scottish Government has pressed for clear and timely communication with delivery partners, including a timeline for arrivals, public information for the local community, and assurances that any additional costs incurred by NHS Highland and The Highland Council will be met by the UK Government.
An Operational Working Group has been established by the Home Office, involving the Scottish Government, NHS Highland, The Highland Council, and Police Scotland.
Despite repeated requests, the Home Office has not provided a timeline for arrivals, nor confirmed that a final decision on the use of the site has been taken.