§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is his timetable for the secondary legislation he plans to introduce following the enactment of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999; and if he will make a statement. [99794]
§ Mrs. RocheWe intend to phase implementation of the Act over the next 12 to 18 months. In doing so, we will give priority to the provisions, including the relevant order-making powers, relating to the new asylum support arrangements and to the civil penalty for clandestine entrants. Following consultation earlier this year, the Asylum Support (Interim Provisions) Regulations 1999 have already been laid before Parliament. Further secondary legislation will be introduced when necessary and, whenever possible, will be subject to consultation with interested parties.