§ Lord Tope asked Her Majesty's Government:
§ What is the current backlog of applications received for British citizenship since January 2004. [HL3335]
§ Baroness Scotland of Asthal: The amount of nationality work in progress fluctuates. The only published figures are the numbers of decisions made annually.
§ Lord Tope asked Her Majesty's Government:
§ What steps are being taken to clear the backlog of applications received for British citizenship since January 2004, to enable local registration services to plan and prepare regular ceremonies. [HL3336]
29WA§ Baroness Scotland of Asthal: Officials from the Immigration and Nationality Directorate (IND) are working closely with representatives from the local authorities to ensure a steady throughput of citizenship decisions to allow adequate planning and preparation for ceremonies. Additional resources will be allocated to meet an increase in the number of applications being submitted.
§ Lord Tope asked Her Majesty's Government:
§ When local authorities will begin to receive regular payments for the British citizenship ceremonies which they have already undertaken. [HL3337]
§ Baroness Scotland of Asthal: Payments are made to local authorities when they acknowledge receipt of certificates for presentation at ceremonies. There have been difficulties in meeting the agreed 14-day target for making payments, which are now being addressed. Arrangements have been made with busier local authorities for more frequent payments.