HC Deb 10 July 1996 vol 281 cc223-4W
Mr. Rendel

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what the current facilities are for people who are waiting while applying for visas at (a) the British embassy in Moscow and (b) the British consulate general in St. Petersburg. [36323]

Sir Nicholas Bonsor

The visa section in Moscow has been completely refurbished and enlarged this year. There are eight counter positions for visa officers, seating for 108 applicants and standing room for a further 50, clear signposting and washroom facilities. Shelter is provided for those queuing outside.

The St. Petersburg visa section moves shortly into much improved and larger premises. These will provide for three visa officer positions at the reception counter, public seating for 20 and standing for 50, and washroom facilities.

Mr. Rendel

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what has been the average time taken to process a visa application at(a) the British embassy in Moscow and (b) the British consulate general in St. Petersburg in each of the last five years. [36324]

Sir Nicholas Bonsor

The target time laid down in best practice for processing straightforward visit visa applications at all entry clearance issuing posts, is the same day if practical or 24 hours. Bulk applications from local courier firms of travel agents are processed, by agreement, in 10 days.

Moscow and St. Petersburg have operated according to these target times.

Mr. Rendel

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many visa applications have been refused in each of the last five years from(a) the British embassy in Moscow and (b) the British consulate general in St. Petersburg. [36325]

Sir Nicholas Bonsor

The information is as follows:

Visa refusals at Moscow:

  • 1991: 1,087
  • 1992: 1,502
  • 1993: 1,624
  • 1994: 1,894
  • 1995: 3,121

Visa refusals at St. Petersburg, where the visa service started in November 1993:

  • 1993: 116
  • 1994: 622
  • 1995: 762

The rates of refusal represent 3 per cent. and 4 per cent. respectively of applications received.

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