The National Audit Office (NAO) has condemned the UK Home Office for hastily acquiring the Northeye site, a former prison, for £15.4 million despite it being contaminated with asbestos. The purchase, made to fulfill a commitment to end hotel accommodations for asylum seekers, was criticized for poor decision-making and lack of proper assessments. The NAO revealed that the Home Office paid more than double the previous sale price, and the site was deemed unfit for its intended purpose. The agency’s findings highlight the pressures faced by the government to expedite housing solutions for migrants.