Written question asked by Harry Cohen (Labour) on Tuesday, 6 November 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 19 November 2001. It was answered by Angela Eagle (Labour) on Monday, 19 November 2001 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if he will make a statement about his powers in relation to persons detained indefinitely.

Answer: Harry Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement about his powers in relation to persons detained indefinitely. [13861] Angela Eagle: Powers of detention under the Immigration Acts are contained in Schedules 2 and 3 to the Immigration Act 1971. Those in Schedule 2 are exercisable by immigration officers, principally in relation to individuals liable to further examination or removal. Those in Schedule 3 relate to individuals subject to deportation action and are exercisable by the Secretary of State. There are no statutory time limits on the duration of detention although, as a general principle, it should continue for no longer than is necessary. In addition, the provisions of the Anti-terrorism Crime and Security Bill will allow for the detention under Immigration Act powers of persons the Secretary of State has certified as being suspected international terrorists who are a threat to our national security, despite the fact that their removal or departure may be prevented for the time being by a point of law relating to an international agreement or by practical obstacles.

Secondary information