HC Deb 08 June 1982 vol 25 cc17-8W
Mr. Proctor

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to his reply to the hon. Member for Basildon of 24 May, Official Report, c. 219, concerning International Social Service of Great Britain, whether the increase in staff responsible for the Government's repatriation scheme reflects an increase in the applications in relation to section 29 of the Immigration Act 1971; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Raison

We can confirm that two extra staff—one part-time—were taken on by International Social Service of Great Britain in 1980 in order to take account of an increase in the volume of work in connection with that organisation's administration of the repatriation scheme under section 29 of the Immigration Act 1971.

Mr. Proctor

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department to what extent International Social Service of Great Britain is accountable to his Department for the purpose of administering section 29 of the Immigration Act 1971; whether it is required to make a full annual report of its operations; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Raison

International Social Service of Great Britain operates the repatriation scheme under section 29 of the Immigration Act 1971 in accordance with criteria established by the Home Office. It is financially accountable to the Home Office for its operation of the scheme, but its day-to-day work in this area is carried out independently of the Department. ISS is required to submit audited accounts annually to the Home Office, but it is not required to make an annual report to the Home Secretary.

Mr. Proctor

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to his reply to the hon. Member for Basildon of 24 May, Official Report, c. 219, concerning the sums paid by his Department to International Social Service of Great Britain in respect of administration expenses, for what purposes of administration the money was used apart from the payment of salaries; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Raison

The payments made to International Social Service of Great Britain in respect of the administration expenses incurred in its operation of the repatriation scheme under section 29 of the Immigration Act 1971 covered the following items of expenditure:

  • Salaries
  • Rent and Rates
  • Light and Heat
  • Cleaning
  • Printing and Stationery
  • Postage and Telephone
  • Legal and Professional Fees
  • Audit and Accountancy Charge
  • Office Equipment
  • Interview Fares
  • General Expenses and Insurance
  • International Headquarters Membership Fee