Written question asked by Mike Hancock (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 14 December 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 17 December 1998. It was answered by Mike O'Brien (Labour) on Thursday, 17 December 1998 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, how many illegal immigrants who arrived at Poole Ferry Port are currently being detained; and what were the equivalent figures for each of the last six months. - Inc figures.

Answer: Mr. Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many illegal immigrants who arrived at Poole Ferry Port are currently being detained; and what were the equivalent figures for each of the last six months. [64254] Mr. Mike O'Brien: The available information is that, as at 15 December 1998, no more than two persons who had been served with a notice of illegal entry by immigration officials at Poole were detained solely under Immigration Act powers. Information relating to the previous six months could only be obtained at disproportionate cost.

Secondary information