§ Mr. MuddTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received, and on what dates, from United Kingdom and international airlines suggesting possible changes to the Immigration (Carriers' Liability) Act 1987; and whether he is considering amendments to the Act.
§ Mr. Peter Lloyd[holding answer 5 July 1990]: The dates and precise nature of representations received from airlines could be provided only at disproportionate cost. I can, however, say that the only fundamental changes proposed by the airlines or their representatives have been (i) the introduction of a variable charge up to a maximum of £1,000 per passenger, (as opposed to the existing set charge of £1,000 per passenger); (ii) the removal of liability 67W in respect of those passengers who, notwithstanding the absence of proper documentation, are granted leave to enter the United Kingdom. British Airways, in particular, has raised a number of issues about the implementation of the Act, and these are under consideration.
I have no present plans to amend the Act.
§ Mr. MuddTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will list, according to airline, the number of convictions and fines and costs involved, all United Kingdom and international carriers penalised for contraventions of the Immigration (Carriers' Liability) Act 1987.
§ Mr. Peter Lloyd[holding answer 5 July 1990]: The Act gives rise to a civil liability in respect of improperly documented passengers brought to the United Kingdom. It is not the practice to disclose information on the record of individual airlines under the Act.