Written question asked by David Rendel (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 2 February 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 10 February 2005. It was answered by Lord Browne of Ladyton (Labour) on Thursday, 10 February 2005 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what steps his Department is taking to achieve a reduction in the costs of processing a visa extension for an international student.

Answer: Mr. Rendel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps his Department is taking to achieve a reduction in the costs of processing a visa extension for an international student. [214567] Mr. Browne: International students bring significant economic and social benefits to the UK. In recognition of this, students seeking to vary or extend their conditions of stay in the UK will be charged a reduced fee for postal applications. Our analysis, which is set out in the recently published Regulatory Impact Assessment, indicates that at the level proposed, the postal charges were unlikely to have a significant impact on the UK's ability to attract and retain international students. However, in order to ensure that remaining to study in the UK remains a competitive option, we have decided that charges should be at a lower rate of £250 for the standard postal service. The higher, premium fee is an optional service which students can take advantage of if they so choose.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 430 c1744-5W; 214567
Session: 2004-05
Subjects: Applications Administration Costs Fees and charges Entry clearances Postal services Overseas students Visas
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk