HC Deb 25 April 1986 vol 96 cc254-5W
Mr. Greenway

asked the Prime Minister (1) if Her Majesty's Government have any plans to curtail the stay of all those Libyan trainee engineers and pilots currently studying in the United Kingdom; and if she will make a statement;

(2) if she is satisfied with the arrangements for dealing with the security implications of the presence in the United Kingdom of Libyan trainee engineers and pilots; and if she will make a statement.

The Prime Minister

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport has issued directions to all operators of aircraft registered or operating in the United Kingdom and to managers of certain aerodromes, which will prevent Libyan aviation engineering trainees from having access to aircraft except as passengers, and which will prevent Libyan pilot trainees from making solo flights. The effect of these measures will be that such trainees will be unable to complete their courses or obtain qualifications.

In that event their current basis of stay will no longer exist and they will be expected to leave. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Home Department will hot hesitate to use his powers to curtail their stay or initiate deportation action in approproate cases, if they fail to leave voluntarily.