HC Deb 04 December 1986 vol 106 c717W
Mr. Corbyn

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what guidelines are issued to immigration officers at ports of entry concerning questions of an intimate nature to arrivals; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Waddington

Instructions are that questioning should be tactful, particularly when dealing with a member of the opposite sex and that questions which might be taken as casting a doubt on passengers' morals should be avoided.

Mr. Corbyn

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many arrivals from (i) India, (ii) Pakistan and (iii) Bangladesh who have been in possession of visas have been refused entry to the United Kingdom since the visa requirement was introduced.

Mr. Waddington

Up to and including 2 December, one Indian, two Pakistani and five Bangladeshi nationals in possession of visas have been refused leave to enter.

Mr. Corbyn

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what race relations training is given to immigration officers based at ports of entry.

Mr. Waddington

Training in racial awareness is included in the courses given to all newly appointed immigration officers and existing staff in the Immigration Service. Emphasis is placed on the careful handling of interpersonal relationships and the need for courtesy and impartiality.

Mr. Corbyn

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many complaints from arrivals in the United Kingdom in the last year he has received concerning the behaviour of immigration officers at ports of entry.

Mr. Waddington

From 1 January to 2 December this year 131 written complaints were received which related wholly or in part to the behaviour of immigration officers at ports.

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