§ 27. Mr. WilkinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many asylum seekers entered the United Kingdom through Heathrow Airport in 1999, 1998, 1997 and 1996. [103988]
§ Mrs. RocheA total of 10,785 asylum applications were made at the four Heathrow Terminals in the period January to November 1999. This compares with 10,665 in 1998, 8,625 in 1997 and 8,520 in 1996.
§ 28. Mr. GerrardTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to assist those granted asylum in the United Kingdom to integrate into British society. [103989]
§ Mrs. RocheA consultation paper was issued on 2 November 1999 which set out our proposals for the integration of refugees and those granted exceptional298W leave to remain based on partnership with everyone involved—the voluntary sector, local authorities and social services. Over 30 responses have been received and we will be considering the way forward in the light of those responses.
§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what estimate he has made of the number of asylum seekers who will be sent to locations in Scotland in 2000 and 2001. [103971]
§ Mrs. RocheIt is too soon to say how many asylum seekers might be dispersed to Scotland. The number will depend on the extent to which accommodation can be provided in Scotland, and the number of asylum seekers seeking a full support package. We are in discussion with the Scottish Executive and a Scottish Consortium representing local authority interests in Scotland about these matters.