Written question asked by David Simpson (Democratic Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 25 June 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 30 June 2008. It was answered by Liam Byrne (Labour) on Tuesday, 8 July 2008 on behalf of the Home Office.

Immigration: Criminal Records

Question: (2) how many criminal record checks were carried out on (a) EU foreign nationals and (b) non-EU foreign nationals seeking to enter Northern Ireland in each of the last five years.

Answer: From 1 July 2007, the UK Border Agency introduced the Home Office Warnings Index (HOWI) checking policy. This policy requires 100 per cent. checking of all documents against the HOWI. The HOWI comprises a watchlist of adverse information and intelligence drawn from various sources, including the police. The system is used by UK Border Agency staff for the purposes of national security and the detection and prevention of crime. It is long-standing policy not to discuss either the specific data held on the watchlist or the source of the data as to do so would be counter-productive.When UK Border Agency staff require a passenger to submit to further examination, part of the officers' inquiries may include checking the passenger's details against the Police National Computer (PNC). For example, where there is evidence to suggest that the individual has previously committed a criminal offence or where there is evidence to suggest that the individual is currently engaged—or is likely to be engaged—in criminal activity.

Secondary information