Written question asked by Lord Avebury (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord West of Spithead (Labour) on Monday, 29 March 2010.

Asylum Seekers

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government whether the Case Resolution Directorate of the UK Border Agency is processing asylum cases in order of the person's arrival in the United Kingdom; and, if not, how the directorate decides on their priority.

Answer: The Case Resolution Directorate (CRD) does not process outstanding asylum legacy cases in order of the person's arrival in the United Kingdom. As set out in the Home Office's Immigration and Nationality Directorate review of July 2006, command paper reference 275921, CRD prioritises those individuals who may pose a risk to the public, are receiving support from the agency, and those who can more easily be removed or where it is likely that the decision will be made to allow them to remain in the United Kingdom. All cases will be dealt with on their own individual merits and in accordance with these priorities.

Secondary information