HL Deb 04 November 2002 vol 640 cc67-8WA
Lord Hylton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they intend to change the way in which Oakington Immigration and Asylum Centre is used after 10 November; and, if so, how they will ensure the safety of all staff employed there and the provision of legal advice to non-suspensive appellants. [HL6103]

Lord Filkin:

We intend to continue to use Oakington Reception Centre to deal quickly with straightforward asylum claims. Under the provisions of the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Bill as presently drafted, we shall include applications from the 10 safe countries listed in the Bill to which non-suspensive appeals will apply.

As with existing Oakington applicants, there will be on-site access to legal advice.

Any change in routine requires by law a risk assessment of the site. This is now being undertaken for the whole site at Oakington. Security is reviewed on a regular basis.