Family Reunion Visas: Gaza Debate

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Department: Home Office
Wednesday 24th April 2024

(7 months ago)

Lords Chamber
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Lord Sharpe of Epsom Portrait Lord Sharpe of Epsom (Con)
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I take the noble Baroness’s point—but, as I say, we keep all existing pathways in response to events under review.

Lord Coaker Portrait Lord Coaker (Lab)
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I join the noble and learned Baroness, Lady Butler-Sloss, in the tribute that she made to our noble friend Frank Field—I am sure that we all join with that.

Judicial review has found that the family of a Palestinian refugee can apply for a visa without the use of biometrics. The Home Office has said that it is complying with that, so can the Minister outline to the Chamber how it is complying, and whether that applies to all those who should seek a visa application from Gaza?

Lord Sharpe of Epsom Portrait Lord Sharpe of Epsom (Con)
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The noble Lord asks an important question. The judgment was handed down a couple of weeks ago; obviously, we have received the outcome and officials will provide advice very shortly to Ministers on how it will impact ongoing and future operations.