PRISON inspectors have condemned the “horrifying” conditions at a west London immigration detention centre, with refugees forced to live in violent, overcrowded and abusive surroundings.

The “shocking” problems at Harmondsworth Immigration Removal Centre (IRC) were reported four months ago, with HM Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor complaining to then home secretary James Cleverly shortly after the inspectors’ visit in February. However, he received no response.

In a report published today following a return visit, inspectors say conditions at the detention centre — run by security firm Mitie — have deteriorated further.