HC Deb 21 December 1984 vol 70 c370W
Mr. Shersby

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will take steps to reduce the involvement of the police in deportation work.

Mr. Brittan

Arrangements have been made for the Immigration Service to take over responsibility from the police service in Great Britain for serving deportation orders, including tracing the subject of the order where necessary, making the practical arrangements for removal in most cases, and the service of detention and restriction orders on persons subject to deportation proceedings. Responsibility for escorting and where necessary arresting the subjects of deportation and detention orders will remain with the police. The change, which will be reviewed after a year's operation, is intended to relieve pressure on police manpower and make better use of existing resources within the Immigration Service.