Home Office distributes over 1,000 taxpayer‑funded hijabs to small‑boat migrants

The Home Office supplied more than 1,000 hijabs to small‑boat migrants between January and June 2026, according to internal figures released in early October.

The scarves were included in the basic dry‑clothing packs provided at short‑term holding facilities such as Manston in Kent, and the department says they fulfil a legal duty to meet cultural and religious requirements.

Internal data show 974 hijabs were issued in the first half of the year, an average of 162 per month, leading analysts to estimate the total could approach 1,500 by year‑end if the rate continues. The same records document 10,694 male clothing packs, 2,670 female packs and children’s packs for 773 boys and 829 girls, alongside other items such as beanie hats and babygrows.

“It’s an insult to hard‑working British taxpayers that they’re funding religious items for people who have broken into our country. It should not be for us to fund someone else’s religious practices.” – Chris Philp, Shadow Home Secretary

A Home Office source responded that the provision is mandated by the Short‑term Holding Facility Rules, which require basic clothing to include cultural and religious items where practicable.

“All arrivals receive a basic dry clothing pack where required. The items available form part of standard welfare arrangements.” – Home Office spokesperson

Opposition figures, including Reform UK MP Andrew Rosindell, have called for an immediate halt to the practice, arguing it incentivises illegal arrivals. The Home Office, however, maintains that the clothing program is separate from broader immigration enforcement and complies with statutory obligations.

While total small‑boat arrivals this year have fallen 42 % from the same point in 2025, the issue of welfare provisions for those who do arrive remains a flash point in the political debate, with calls for a review of the rules governing short‑term holding facilities.