§ 47. Mr. Bernie GrantTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what evidence he has of hardship suffered by elderly and unemployed people of African, Caribbean and Asian origin as a result of the requirement to pay £60 in order to register under the Nationality Act; if he will waive the charge in such cases; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RentonWe have received a number of representations from hon. Members about constituents who say they cannot afford the fee. There is, however, no requirement for registration, and failure to apply, for whatever reason, will not affect immigration status or existing rights to social security benefits, local authority housing, medical treatment under the National Health Service or voting. We do not therefore believe that any hardship will result. There is no power to waive the fee in particular cases.