Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Mike Hancock (Liberal Democrat). It was answered on Monday, 14 July 2008 on behalf of the Home Office.

Domestic Violence Courts

Question: I welcome the suggestion that further work be done on domestic violence courts, but will the Minister also consider a domestic violence court for those dealing with immigration matters? A number of women who have come to this country for partnership and marriage, but who have been subjected to domestic violence and other abuse, have subsequently had their appeals turned down, yet without the domestic violence element being taken into consideration. Such women are simply abandoned to the system, which takes no account whatever of the abuse that they have suffered during their time in this country.

Answer: If that is a serious problem, I will look into it, but my understanding from the sorts of comments that the hon. Gentleman has made was that it would be taken into account. However, I will have a look at the point that he makes and ensure that if there is a problem with respect to it, it is taken into account.

Secondary information