Written question asked by David Hinchliffe (Labour) on Tuesday, 18 November 1997, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 26 November 1997. It was answered by Derek Fatchett (Labour) on Wednesday, 26 November 1997 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what are the procedures for the provision of free DNA tests in circumstances where the authenticity of a family relationship is contested, for immigration purposes.

Answer: Mr. Hinchliffe: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what are the procedures for the provision of free DNA tests in circumstances where the authenticity of a family relationship is contested, for immigration purposes. [17234] Mr. Fatchett: DNA tests are provided for first-time applicants wishing to settle in the UK and for persons seeking to establish an entitlement to the Right of Abode in the UK. Applicants are advised that the service is free and that participation is voluntary. Blood samples are sent to the UK for DNA analysis for comparison with a DNA sample taken from a family member in the UK. Results are normally notified to Posts within 6 weeks.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 17234; 301 c544W
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Applications Dependants Blood Immigration controls Immigration Genetics Migrants Testing Right of abode