Clause 39
Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Bill [Lords]
1:00 pm
Phil Woolas (Minister of State (the North West), Home Office; Oldham East and Saddleworth, Labour)
It is good to be starting the debate so soon after lunch, under these new modern hours. I am not sure why I voted for them, but I can see the point of view of the Minister at the time.
I will try to be helpful and answer the questions on specific points, and then explain the approach we are taking. Before I do that, it is incumbent on me to bring it to your attention, Sir Nicholas, and that of members of the Committee that I have placed an updated impact assessment of the Bill in the Vote Office this afternoon. Quite rightly, it is the Government’s obligation to give the House information that is as up-to-date as possible. There are some revised figures in the Government’s estimate of the implication of the Bill for benefits and I draw that to the attention of the Committee out of courtesy. Members will want to be aware of it.