§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
What progress they are making in reviewing the voucher system applying to asylum seekers; when they expect to reach conclusions; and whether they will give instructions that change in full in cash should always be given when vouchers are tendered for purchases. [HL4496]
§ Lord Bassam of BrightonThe Goverment's review of the operation of the voucher support system is under way. It is hoped to complete the review early next year, when its conclusions will be reported in another place. All relevant stakeholders and interested parties are being invited to make representations. I will place a list of those organisations which contribute to the review in the Library.
The review will include early consideration of how change and lower denomination vouchers can be issued in the context of the decisions made by Parliament and reflected in the 1999 Immigration and Asylum Act.