Clause 34
Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Bill [Lords]
9:15 am
Phil Woolas (Minister of State (the North West), Home Office; Oldham East and Saddleworth, Labour)
I hope you will allow me, Miss Begg, briefly to answer that question. It is related to the clause.
Arrangements are made through the Local Government Association committee, which is helpful and pragmatic. The directors and councillors are very helpful. My answer to the latest parliamentary question on the matter stated that we were satisfied with the arrangements.
I know that Hillingdon in particular has had some concerns. The hon. Gentleman will have seen the recent press reports. I am not denying the importance of the reports, but they relate to a period that was covered by the old agreement. There is a new agreement for the period covering the last financial year and this one.
We have designated officials who liaise with the key authorities. For the benefit of the hon. Gentleman and the Committee, I will check whether there is an outstanding problem. I do not believe that there is, but, if there is, we clearly have an obligation to reach an agreement.