Written question asked by Harry Cohen (Labour) on Wednesday, 17 October 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 24 October 2001. It was answered by Angela Eagle (Labour) on Wednesday, 24 October 2001 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if an asylum seeker detained in a prison is considered a prisoner; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Harry Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if an asylum seeker detained in a prison is considered a prisoner; and if he will make a statement. [9118] Angela Eagle: Persons detained in prison solely while their application for asylum is being considered, or where awaiting removal following a failed asylum application, or deportation by order of a court following the completion of a prison sentence of more than 12 months are immigration detainees. They are held under the same conditions as unconvicted prisoners with the same rights and privileges. Asylum seekers who are serving a prison sentence following conviction by a court are treated accordingly.

Secondary information