§ Sir Patrick CormackTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many asylum seekers whose applications were refused during(a) 1999 and (b) 2000 have now left the country; and what proportion this represents of the total in each case. [10629]
§ Angela EagleIt is not possible to say how many persons whose asylum applications were refused in 1999 and 2000 have subsequently left the country. Applicants may leave voluntarily without informing the Home Office, or may be in the process of preparing an appeal or awaiting the outcome of an appeal.
The total number of asylum seekers who were removed (excluding dependants) from the United Kingdom in 1999 and 2000 is given in the table. Some of these removals will relate to decisions to refuse asylum in earlier years. 501W
Year Total asylum removals1,2 1999 7,665 2000 38,980 1Includes persons departing 'voluntarily' after enforcement action was initiated against them. 2Persons who sought asylum at some point, excluding dependants. Includes persons leaving under the Voluntary Assisted Returns Programme. 3Provisional. Note:
Figures rounded to the nearest five.
§ Mr. MalinsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to introduce a system enabling the Government to monitor the whereabouts of asylum seekers who are not detained; and if he will make a statement. [9457]
§ Angela EagleThere are a number of existing mechanisms by which the Government monitor the whereabouts of asylum seekers who are not detained. A number of options for improving these procedures are under consideration.
My right hon. Friend the Home Secretary will make a statement shortly setting out our proposals.