§ Harry CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations his Department has received about the proposed operation of immigration snatch squads; what assessment he has made of the consequences for public order; and if he will make a statement. [10150]
§ Angela EagleWe do not have any plans to introduce snatch squads.
The immigration service has run a highly successful pilot scheme to conduct visits and arrests without the assistance of the police. In the pilot year, 413 visits were conducted and no complaints were received. Three arrest 616W teams have been established in the metropolitan area. By the end of March 2002, each immigration service region should have an arrest team. A full risk assessment is conducted in conjunction with the police before any visit takes place.