§ Mr. Maddenasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when the immigration office at the British embassy in Islamabad ceased to accept letters from sponsors, solicitors and other representatives as applications for entry clearance; if this rule applies to other British posts; when this rule was introduced; what consultation was undertaken; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EggarIn the applicant's own interest a standard application form should be used where possible, but letters that contain all of the relevant details may still be sent to and accepted by British missions overseas, providing that the letter is accompanied by the appropriate fee paid in local currency. This applies to all entry clearance issuing posts, and is a result of the introduction of the entry certificate fee on 1 January 1985. Apart from visa nationals applying in the Republic of Ireland and those applying in the United Kingdom for re-entry visas, applications since 26 August 1985 must be lodged outside the common travel area.