Written question asked by Lord Avebury (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Henley (Conservative) on Tuesday, 15 November 2011.

Malaysia

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether the UK Border Agency consider that discussions with the Government of Malaysia about the situation ofMalaysian holders of British Overseas Citizenship have been useful; and, if so, on what grounds and what are the next steps.

Answer: The UK Border Agency (UKBA) officials have made good progress throughout their discussions with the Malaysian authorities. UKBA officials have secured co-operation from the Malaysian authorities to ensure that applications for the renunciation of Malaysian citizenship are not progressed on the assumption that this will enable settlement or citizenship in the UK to be acquired. Officials have also sought written confirmation from the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs that former Malaysian citizens will be allowed to return to Malaysia and begin steps towards resuming their citizenship. Officials have requested a meeting with the Malaysian High Commission in London to discuss the practicalities of this.

Secondary information