Written question asked by Jim Cunningham (Labour) on Wednesday, 5 May 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 24 May 2004. It was answered by Lord Browne of Ladyton (Labour) on Monday, 24 May 2004 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, when failed Iraqi asylum seekers are expected to return home. - (Holding answer 12 May 2004).

Answer: Mr. Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when failed Iraqi asylum seekers are expected to return home. [171888] Mr. Browne: [holding answer 12 May 2004]: All asylum and human rights claims are considered on their individual merits in accordance with our obligations under the 1951 UN Refugee Convention and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Should a claim be refused and any appeal before the Independent Immigration Appellate Authority be unsuccessful, it means for that individual it is safe to return. We would expect these individuals to return home. We have reached agreement with the Coalition Provisional Authority in Iraq to begin enforced returns. Work is currently under way on the practicalities of the returns programme, and returns will begin as soon as these arrangements are finalised. We are currently facilitating the return of those who wish to go home through the International Organisation for Migration.

Secondary information