An immigration centre could be set up to deal with the growing number of asylum seekers at Tilbury docks, the Home Secretary has told the Echo.
Charles Clarke said there were strong arguments to support a unit to deal with would-be immigrants arriving at Tilbury Port.
Local authorities say at least two immigrants smuggle their way into south Essex every week although the real figure is probably far higher.
Those that are arrested are often sent unescorted to Croydon because the nearest immigration office is 60 miles away in Harwich, north Essex.
Mr Clarke said: "We are currently looking at the possibility of siting an immigration facility in Thurrock.
"At the moment there are a relatively small number of these facilities spread around the country.
"The Tilbury Port and Thurrock area would be a good one to look at because is such a busy gateway into England.
"This is all part of our five-year plan on immigration and will be considered in due course."
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