§ Lynne JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what progress has been made in investigations by his Department into what evidence other than conviction, injunction or police caution could be taken into account to allow women who are not British citizens facing domestic violence to remain in the UK if their marriage breaks down within the two-year probationary period; [75821]
(2) what the outcome of investigations by his Department is into possible changes in immigration rules affecting women fleeing a violent relationship to ensure foreign spouses fleeing domestic violence are not excluded from crisis accommodation and have access to all support services; [75822]
(3) what the outcome of discussions between his Department and the Department for Work and Pensions is as to whether DWP regulations regarding access to public funds might be relaxed in order that foreign spouses fleeing domestic violence may benefit. [75823]
§ Beverley HughesWe have recently undertaken a review of the operation of the domestic violence concession. Consideration is being given to whether the terms of the concession should be extended to include the acceptance of other forms of evidence that domestic violence took place. An announcement will be made as soon as possible.
The Home Office, the Department for Work and Pensions and the Cabinet Office are currently exploring possible options to address the issue of support for victims of domestic violence who are subject to immigration control.