Written question asked by James Clappison (Conservative) on Friday, 23 April 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 17 May 2004. It was answered by Lord Browne of Ladyton (Labour) on Monday, 17 May 2004 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, how many asylum seekers have been given leave to remain in the UK as a result of the exercise announced by him in October 2003; how many dependants have also benefited from this exercise; how many failed asylum seekers who have exhausted their appeal rights have benefited; and how many cases have been refused.

Answer: Mr. Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many asylum seekers have been given leave to remain in the UK as a result of the exercise announced by him in October 2003; how many dependants have also benefited from this exercise; how many failed asylum seekers who have exhausted their appeal rights have benefited; and how many cases have been refused. [168914] Mr. Browne: An announcement detailing the results of the exercise including the available statistical information will be made when the exercise is completed. We would not wish to release figures until all those potentially qualifying applicants have had an opportunity to respond to our queries. We have made good progress in considering the cases originally identified. The bulk of cases has been processed with the majority, where the applicants have responded to our queries, having been decided. We are reliant on the applicants we contact replying to our queries promptly. Those not doing so are being reminded.

Secondary information