§ Mr. MalinsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the future of the Oakington Detention Centre site. [53904]
§ Angela Eagle[holding answer 2 May 2002]: The fast track asylum facility operated at the Oakington Reception Centre is a key element within the Government's overall strategy for processing asylum applicants as speedily as possible. Subject to the outcome of the appeal to the House of Lords, we intend that the fast track process will continue to operate as at present. We fully expect to have the use of the Oakington facility until October 2004 but, in view of the outstanding judicial proceedings, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage.