HC Deb 26 June 1997 vol 296 c575W
Sir Teddy Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the procedures to be followed in respect of those primary purpose cases before tribunals withdrawn following the guidance given to the Chief Adjudicator on 6 May; and if he will indicate when guidance will be given on the case of Mrs. Sewarra (case number TH/4170/96. [5494]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

Following the abolition of the primary purpose rule, Home Office officials are reviewing all outstanding appeals where primary purpose was one of the grounds for refusal to decide whether there is sufficient evidence to contest the appeal on any of the other grounds quoted in the refusal letter. If the refusal was based solely on primary purpose or if there is insufficient evidence to contest the other grounds, the entry clearance officer will be instructed to issue entry clearance and invite the appellant to withdraw the appeal. In all other cases, the appeal will be contested. Officials are keeping the Independent Appellate Authority, which is solely responsible for listing appeals, informed as this review proceeds. The review of some 1,500 outstanding appeals will be completed as soon as possible. I have written to the hon. Member on the case he raises.

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