§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what immigration checks are made on 377W (a) young children and (b) young people allowed into the UK; how such checks are followed up; and if he will make a statement. [118390]
§ Mrs. RocheThe normal requirements of the Immigration Rules apply to persons under the age of 18. For a British Citizen or other European Economic Area national the immigration officer establishes nationality and identity to confirm exemption from the immigration control. For other nationalities, the immigration officer must be satisfied that the individual is eligible for entry for the purpose requested.
Every effort is made to try to ensure that inquiries or an interview are conducted in the presence of a responsible adult either accompanying or meeting a child.
Once granted entry, the normal requirements apply in respect of those seeking an extension of stay, or with failure to observe the time limit which render the child's or young person's stay unlawful.