Written question asked by Robert N Wareing (Independent (affiliation)) on Monday, 21 January 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 28 January 2008. It was answered by Liam Byrne (Labour) on Wednesday, 6 February 2008 on behalf of the Home Office.

Visas

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps she is taking to expedite the processing of visa applications for those wishing to attend the 2012 Olympic Games; and what additional resources she estimates will be required to deal with the expected rise in the number of applications.

Answer: [holding answer 28 January 2008]: The handling of visa applications leading up to 2012 forms part of a programme set up by the Border and Immigration Agency to prepare for the London Olympic and Paralympic Games. The programme will work with key stakeholders and is looking at the experience of past host nations. It is too early to say what resources will be necessary to deal with the expected increase in visa applications, but a key aim is to ensure the efficient passage of participants, workers and visitors coming to the United Kingdom for the 2012 games while maintaining the security of our Borders.

Secondary information