§ Mr. MaddenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department why he does not allow those who assist applicants to apply for British citizenship also to act as referees for their application; when this ruling was reached; and what action was taken to advise applicants and their representatives of the ruling.
§ Mr. RentonIt has always been a requirement that referees should be independent of the applicant. Solicitors and agents are excluded. This is explained in the guide given, with the applications form, to all applicants for naturalisation.