Written question asked by Mike Hancock (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 11 December 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 13 December 2007. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Monday, 7 January 2008 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Chernobyl: Children

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent (a) discussions he has held with and (b) representations he has received from (i) ministerial colleagues, (ii) the Belarus ambassador and (iii) charities on Chernobyl-affected children being able to enter the UK; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: We appreciate the important work being undertaken by United Kingdom charities to provide respite care and medical treatment for children affected by the Chernobyl disaster. We have held no recent discussions with the Belarus ambassador to London in respect of Chernobyl children. We have, however, recently received correspondence from hon. Members and Peers, from the Belarus ambassador to London, and from charities concerning the visa processes for visits to the United Kingdom by Chernobyl-affected children. UKvisas continues to work with the Chernobyl charities with regard to the visa procedures and the collection of biometrics from visa applicants.

Secondary information