HC Deb 29 February 1996 vol 272 cc642-3W
Mr. Madden

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs by what mechanisms he informs the Home Secretary when he reaches a decision on whether(a) India and (b) Pakistan is a candidate for designation as a country where there is in general no serious risk of persecution; and if he will make a statement. [18132]

Sir Nicholas Bonsor

My right hon. and learned Friend the Foreign Secretary has already informed his right hon. and learned Friend Friend the Home Secretary of his agreement to the proposed list of designated countries, which includes India and Pakistan. No actual designation will be possible until clause 1 of the Asylum and Immigration Bill comes into force, and an order has been made under it.