Written question asked by Tony Lloyd (Labour) on Friday, 14 November 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 20 November 2003. It was answered by Chris Mullin (Labour) on Thursday, 20 November 2003 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, if he will make a statement on the facilities in Nairobi for Somalians applying for entry clearance in to the UK; and what plans he has to change the facilities.

Answer: Tony Lloyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the facilities in Nairobi for Somalians applying for entry clearance in to the UK; and what plans he has to change the facilities. [139720] Mr. Mullin: Our Visa Section at the High Commission in Nairobi is still unable to accept applications from Somali applicants without recognised identity documents. I recognise this problem and recently discussed it with staff at the High Commission during my visit to Nairobi in October. As a response to a specific threat at our High Commission in December 2002 security restrictions were introduced affecting personal callers wishing to enter the High Commission compound. In line with these restrictions the Visa Section is still only able to accept applications for entry clearance from those who hold appropriate documentation confirming their nationality and identity. I recognise that these restrictions cause particular difficulties to Somali applicants, We are looking at ways to resolve this.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 139720; 413 c1321W;413 c1316-7W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Entry clearances Proof of identity Somalia Visas Terrorism Security Kenya
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk