§ Mr. Terry DavisTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department how many appeals against the refusal of entry clearance were outstanding on 31 May or at the most recent date for which this information is available; how many appeals against the refusal of asylum were outstanding on this date; what action is being taken to reduce the numbers of outstanding appeals; and whether any priority is given to appeals against the refusal of asylum. [29793]
Mr. John M. TaylorThe number of outstanding appeals against refusal of entry clearance is not recorded as a separate figure. However, at 31 May 1995, approximately 9,369 non-asylum appeals were outstanding. The number of asylum appeals outstanding was 4,885. There are plans to recruit additional adjudicators and staff, and to expand existing court room accommodation, to enable more cases to be heard in future. In the short term, more flexible listing arrangements and an increase in the length of the sitting day will help to increase the disposal rate. The immigration appellate authorities are also able to offer parties in London a hearing at a provincial centre where waiting times are shorter.
138WThe immigration appellate authorities endeavour to determine asylum appeals where the Secretary of State has certified the claim to be without foundation within seven days of their receipt, and all other asylum appeals within 42 days, in accordance with the Asylum Appeals (Procedure) Rules 1993.