§ Ms OsborneTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions he has held with regard to the dispersal of asylum seekers to Scotland. [100190]
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§ Mrs. RocheIn preparation for commencement next year of the new support arrangements, Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, officials in my Department have been discussing with officials in the Scottish Executive, local authorities, the voluntary sector and potential accommodation providers, arrangements for the dispersal of asylum seekers to Scotland. These discussions have included bilateral meetings and a seminar held on 21 September in Glasgow, which focused on the provision of accommodation. The precise arrangements for dispersal remain subject to further consideration and consultation.