HC Deb 23 February 1998 vol 307 cc33-4W
Mr. Malins

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many explanatory statements following refusal of applications by entry clearance offices in British Missions overseas have been(a) received and (b) dispatched to the Independent Appellate Authority for listing of appeals; and if he will make a statement. [30741]

Mr. Fatchett

In 1996, following refusal by entry clearance officers in British Posts overseas, 8,829 settlement and 1,369 non-settlement appeals were received. 8,317 settlement and 878 non-settlement appeal explanatory statements were dispatched by 31 December 1996 to the appellate authorities.

Figures for 1997 will be available by the end of April.