§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (1) if, when evaluating the visa application of a foreigner married to a British citizen, British immigration officials assess the integrity of the British spouse; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what questions British immigration officials ask visa applicants who are married to British citizens, when deciding on the primary purpose of the marriage; and if he will make a statement;
(3) whether the desire of a foreigner married to a British citizen to be reunited with his or her spouse and children constitutes sufficient grounds for the granting of a visa; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MaudeIn considering an application for entry clearance from a foreign spouse of a British citizen, the entry clearance officer must be satisfied that the relevant requirements of the immigration rules are met. Depending on whether a visit or settlement was intended, these requirements are set out in paragraphs 22 and 50 of the Immigration Rules (HC 388).
Entry clearance officers have discretion to ask whatever questions are necessary to establish whether an applicant qualifies for admission under the immigration rules. However, in pursuing any particular line of questioning, entry clearance officers are instructed to be at all times alert to the sensitivities of applicants (and sponsors) and to treat them all with courtesy, tact and respect.