PROTESTS have broken out inside an asylum processing centre at Manston where conditions have been described as “catastrophically overcrowded,” unsafe and understaffed.

The Morning Star understands that around 60 men detained at the site in Kent staged a peaceful sit-in outside on Thursday afternoon against being held at the former RAF base for weeks in dire conditions.

Individuals who refused to move some hours later were subjected to use of force by Border Force officials and private security staff, according to the POA union, which represents some staff working at Manston.