HC Deb 09 May 2002 vol 385 cc333-4W
Mr. Malins

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when the asylum induction centre in Dover will be fully operational; and if he will make a statement. [53907]

Angela Eagle

[holding answer 2 May 2002]: Applicants are housed on a full-board basis. Migrant Helpline and the National Asylum Support Service (NASS) provide support services daily leading to dispersal within seven days of arrival. Those who do not seek NASS support are fully briefed about the asylum process in the United Kingdom and an interview is arranged on their behalf.

Presently health screening is provided through the East Kent health authority, and is funded by the Immigration and Nationality Directorate for a six-month pilot period, at the end of which the process will be evaluated before decisions are taken on the delivery of health screening within induction centres throughout the United Kingdom.