§ Mr. David ShawTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to introduce application forms for use by foreign nationals wishing to apply for leave to remain in the United Kingdom. [26623]
§ Mr. Nicholas BakerApplication forms will enable the Immigration Department to provide a more efficient service to applicants at a lower cost to the public purse. Genuine applicants will receive a speedier decision while those not entitled to further leave to stay will be refused more quickly, strengthening the immigration control. From 5 June, application forms for requests for limited leave to remain will be available from the application forms unit of the Immigration Department. Forms for settlement applications are in preparation. The scheme will not include applications under European Community law or applications for asylum. The operation of the scheme will be reviewed later this year following which we envisage making the use of application forms compulsory.