ASYLUM seekers are set to find homes in Malvern with more than 20 homes being set aside by local authorities.

A group of 167 family units, which could mean single males to couples with children, are set to arrive in Worcestershire in the autumn, from countries throughout the world.

The influx is to follow the signing of contracts between local authorities, including Malvern Hills District Council, and the Government.

The purpose is to take pressure off hard-pressed authorities in the south east, particularly those around London.

The asylum seekers could possibly be Afghans, Chinese, Kurds, Russians, Somalis and Iraqis.

Currently there are around 90 asylum seekers in Worcestershire, with the majority of them being from Kosovo.

As yet it is still unclear who would foot the bill. Although the Government is putting up funds for accommodation, the council believes there may be an initial start-up cost which will be difficult to absorb.

Concerns over the funding were raised last week when Sir Michael Spicer, MP for West Worcestershire, met with officials at Malvern Hills.

"I was told it was unclear where the cost of this is going to be borne," he said. "The Government has made various noises about it and assurances.

"What I've said I'll do is get hold of Ministers as soon as possible to make them give me an assurance, so it becomes absolutely clear that as the costs are incurred the Government will foot the bill."

A problem facing the district council could be the Government's stipulation that properties have to be furnished, as housing associations have a shortage of furnished properties.

It may be that the council will have to talk to private landlords.