Written question asked by Lord Carlile of Berriew (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 6 November 1996. It was answered by Lord Kirkhope of Harrogate (Conservative) on Wednesday, 6 November 1996 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: How many asylum seekers are currently in detention; how many of them are detained in HM prisons; how many asylum seekers have been detained at the port of entry since July. - Inc figs. (Revised figure given in Daily Part at 287 c398W for question number 7801)

Answer: Mr. Alex Carlile: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many asylum seekers are currently in detention; how many of them are detained in HM prisons; how many asylum seekers have been detained at the port of entry since July; and if he will make a statement. [1763] Mr. Kirkhope: As at 1 October 1996, a total of 864 persons, who had sought asylum at some stage, were detained, of whom 343 were held in Her Majesty's prisons. A total of 642 persons who had sought asylum at ports between 1 July and 30 September 1996 are recorded as having been placed into detention during that period.

Secondary information