§ Dr. HarrisTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department in relation to the concessionary arrangements for same sex couples outside the immigration rules of 13 October, what consideration he gave to the practice in other countries and if he will list those countries; what qualifying periods are operated by those countries for same sex relationships to be treated in the same way as opposite sex relationships; and if he will make a statement. [26781]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienSome consideration was given to other countries' policies in relation to same sex relationships. However, immigration policy is a matter for each country to decide. We have developed a policy which we consider to be appropriate to the United Kingdom, and have not based it on any other country's system.
§ Dr. HarrisTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many couples have applied under the concessionary arrangements outside the immigration rules announced on 13 October; and, of those couples, how many have been same sex couples. [26779]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienStatistics are not kept in the format requested. However, in the final quarter of 1997, approximately 80 applications for leave to remain were received under the unmarried partners concession: about 30 of these were same sex applications. Approximately half of both same sex cases and heterosexual cases have been granted. There have also been about 10 admissions to the United Kingdom under the concession.
§ Dr. HarrisTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is his policy with regard to the incorporation of recognition of same sex relationships within the Immigration Rules; and if he will make a statement. [26780]
720W
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienIt has been a fundamental principle of the Immigration Rules that someone already settled in the United Kingdom may bring their spouse into the United Kingdom to join them, subject to meeting clear tests as to the genuineness of the marriage and the financial capacity of the couple. The policy which was announced on 10 October is a concession outside the Immigration Rules for those unmarried partners who are legally unable to marry. This retains the special position of marriage. There are no current plans to incorporate this concession into the Immigration Rules.