HL Deb 07 July 1997 vol 581 c50WA
The Earl of Sandwich

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are satisfied with the present system of detaining asylum seekers without charge and with limited opportunity for bail, and, if not, whether they propose to make any immediate changes.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home Office (Lord Williams of Mostyn)

Detention should be used sparingly, and only in cases where it is felt that the person might otherwise abscond. Most detainees under Immigration Act powers have the right to apply for bail to an independent adjudicator. This includes those who may at some stage have sought asylum. However, a wide ranging review covering all aspects of detention policy, including the opportunities to apply for bail, is currently being undertaken. The results are likely to be available in the Autumn.