Written question asked by Damian Green (Conservative) on Tuesday, 7 February 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 9 February 2006. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Thursday, 16 February 2006 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Asylum/Immigration

Question: (2) what language qualification requirements there are on entry clearance officers before they can take up their position.

Answer: I have been asked to reply.UKvisas does not keep a record of how many Entry Clearance Officers (ECOs) can speak the language of the country they are situated in. Most Visa Sections have interpreters and therefore an ECO is not required to have formal language qualifications in order to do their job. However, where an ECO is required to have language skills, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office will provide training up to the necessary level.

Secondary information