§ Mr. Andrew TurnerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many applications under the Regulation of Overstayers scheme have been(a) received and (b) approved in each year since its inception; and for migrants from which countries. [93088]
§ Beverley Hughes(a) 15,315 applications were received by the closing date (revised figure following a full review).
(b) 255 (April 2001); 1,079 (April 2002) and 2,173 (as at September 2002—latest figures available).
Information about countries of origin is not available.
§ Mr. Andrew TurnerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps are taken to verify(a) the identity and (b) criminal record of applicants under the Regulation of Overstayers scheme. [93089]
§ Beverley HughesDocumentary evidence of identity is required on all applications under this scheme. Those applicants who previously applied for asylum will have been through a rigorous screening process. Specially trained caseworkers assess all cases carefully to identify any indication of criminal activity. All such cases are referred to a senior caseworker. Cases where an extant Deportation Order may be evoked or other specifically identified categories will always involve a criminal record check and require clearance by a Senior Officer.
Additionally, applicants with potential security interest are security checked before being granted leave.