Question to the Home Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the proposals by the International Rescue Committee on Ukrainian refugees; and in particular, the proposal to offer visa-free access more widely than at present.

Russia’s assault on Ukraine is an unprovoked, premeditated attack against a sovereign, democratic state. We stand with Ukraine.

Visa waivers are not the solution to allow those fleeing the conflict to come to the UK.

The UK has responded quickly and made changes to the immigration system, to support those affected by the conflict. The Ukraine Family Scheme has been set up which allows family members of British nationals, UK settled persons and certain others to come to or stay in the UK.

From 15 March Ukrainians, who are eligible for the family scheme with passports have been able to apply and get permission to come to the UK, fully online, from wherever they are; and will be able to give their biometrics once in the UK.

In addition, the Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme allows Ukrainian nationals and their family members to come to the UK if they have a named sponsor under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme.