Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, how many Albanian nationals were originally considered for removal from the UK on 12 October 2022 through the accelerated removals procedure; and how many were taken out of the process as a result of (a) making an asylum claim and (b) being identified as potential victims of modern slavery.

We do not routinely comment on individual cases.

All those arriving in the UK by small boat, regardless of nationality, are given the opportunity to raise any protection claims. No one has been removed whilst they had a pending claim for protection or as a potential victim of modern slavery.

Our facilities at Western Jetfoil and Manston both have medical facilities staffed 24/7. Following a full health check by a medical professional, individuals are provided clean dry clothes. Messaging at both sites encourages individuals to make known any medical, welfare or individual needs they may have. Where vulnerable individuals are identified, appropriate care pathways are established.

All individuals arriving in the UK may be examined to establish whether they require leave (permission) to enter the UK, including those arriving via an unauthorised or irregular route. In those circumstances, the presence of a legal representative is not necessary to determine the purpose of an individual’s arrival in the UK, and there is no legal right to such representation. Where an individual is unwilling to answer questions about the purpose of their arrival, the Border Force officer cannot be satisfied of the individuals eligibility to enter the UK and they may be refused.

Where an individual mentions any fear of return to their home country, or indicates they may be a victim of modern slavery or trafficking then officers are required to follow the relevant processes to ensure that those claims are properly considered in line with our international and domestic legal obligations.

Where interviews are being conducted in accordance with the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE), officers will be compliant with the codes of practice including the right to legal representation.