§ Mr. MaddenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what were the main recommendations of the recent efficiency review of the 271W travel document section; when those recommendations are to be implemented; and if he will make a statement. [40852]
§ Mr. KirkhopeThe following main recommendations of the efficiency review of the travel document section have been accepted and take effect from today: that cases should be allocated on arrival to dedicated teams within the section which should retain responsibility for processing the application from start to finish. Applications should be acknowledged and an indication given of the time likely to be needed to process them. Mandatory issues should be given priority and completed with the minimum of delay. Management information systems should be improved.
Two other main recommendations will be implemented as soon as the preparatory work, including consultation with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, has been completed. These were: to introduce an improved travel document; in connection with the improved travel document, to review and redesign the application form.
The travel document section must retain its responsibility to consider applications for documents carefully and to check for signs of abuse, but I am satisfied that these recommendations will produce a better service for applicants entitled to a Home Office travel document.