Taxpayers foot £18,000 bill for resort trip

TAXPAYERS FOOTED an £18,000 bill covering the costs of three government officials who stayed at a luxury hotel while working on a Caribbean island, records show.

Border Force staff spent 64 nights between them at the Sugar Ridge resort on Antigua, a £37m resort that boasts an infinity pool, a gourmet restaurant and stunning views. The team made the trip in early 2016 to advise local authorities on drug trafficking but the details have only emerged following a Freedom of Information request by a national publication.

Documents show the bill for accommodation came to £12,126, while £4,144 went on subsistence, £1,310 on car hire and £994 on flights.

Antiguan customs authorities asked the Border Force team to “help them build the capacity and capability” at the country’s main airport, VC Bird, a Caribbean transport hub.

The Home Office said the officials were potentially at risk of being observed by criminal gangs during their stay on the island.

In its response to the FoI request, the department said it appreciated the decision to put the officials up in the holiday resort “might raise concerns” but “it was considered to be the most suitable option available in terms of balancing cost and security”.

The Sugar Ridge complex is described on its website as Antigua’s newest luxury resort where guests can take advantage of a spa, fitness centre with personal trainer and access to an exclusive beach.

It offers rooms with private verandas, plunge pools and fourposter beds.