§ Mr. ChopeTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what factors underlie the length of time taken to process the issue of a certificate of entitlement to the right of abode; what plans he has to reduce it; and if he will make a statement. [52641]
§ Mr. FatchettApplications at posts overseas for certificates of entitlement to the right of abode are given priority. They represent less than 1 per cent. of all applications received by entry clearance posts. Processing times vary according to the circumstances of each case, but the general aim is to decide certificate of entitlement cases as quickly as possible. Doubtful cases are referred to the Home Office Nationality Directorate in Liverpool. Some applicants are offered DNA testing in order to establish their rights to certificates of entitlement: the average time for this process is 6 weeks. We are satisfied that processing times are generally reasonable.