Emigrants at Yarl's Wood on Hunger Strike

It now appears that more than 100 people at Yarl's Wood went on hunger strike. Officials at the UK Border Agency went on to confirm that they are motoring the situation at the removal center in Bedfordshire. They started to monitor the situation after detainees refused their evening meals.

The deputy chief executive of the UK Border Agency, Jonathan Sedgwick, said that they can confirm that 108 detainees have refused prepared meals from staff. He went on to say that they still have access to food from the on-site shop and vending machines. Staff will continue to monitor the situation closely and listen to the detainees' concerns. All detainees have access to legal representation and 24-hour medical care.

The Yarl's Wood site holds people awaiting deportation but has been strongly criticized over reports that children have been denied medical treatment. They also noted that they were subjected to violence and forced to undress in front of officers of the opposite sex.

Right now Yarl's Wood has 284 beds for women and 121 family bed spaces, according to the UK Border Agency. The center is on the outskirts of Clapham and was originally opened in November of 2001. In February of 2002, half of the building was damaged by fire. The undamaged half of the building reopened in September of 2003.

Just last month the Home Office was forced to clarify comments by Deputy Prime Minster Nick Clegg. Officials said that only the family units at Yarl's Wood would, in fact, shut. The center would continue to function as an emigration removal facility for adults.