If he will make a further statement on his Department's policy on the repatriation to Zimbabwe of Zimbabwean nationals whose asylum and residence applications to the UK have been unsuccessful.

The Government's position remains as set out in the statement that I made on 16 November. The treatment of Zimbabwean asylum applicants is the same as that of all other nationalities. There are Zimbabweans in need of international protection from persecution. Our asylum system provides that protection, and will continue to do so. People who need international protection are given it, but if an asylum and human rights claim by an individual of any nationality is refused, and any appeal to the independent appellate authorities is unsuccessful, we consider that it would be safe for that individual to return to their country of origin. They are expected to leave voluntarily, and if they do not do so we will seek to enforce their return.

I am worried about the Department's policy of allowing failed asylum seekers to return to Zimbabwe in certain circumstances, which might result in the return of one of my constituents, who is a valued member of the local community. Is my hon. Friend aware that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees opposes asylum seekers being returned to Zimbabwe at present? There are worrying accounts of asylum seekers on their return being handed over to Mugabe and his henchmen.

I am, of course, aware of the UNHCR position, which is based on a broad assessment of the situation in Zimbabwe generally. However, asylum and human rights claims are not decided on the basis of the general situation—they are based on the circumstances of the particular individual and the risk to that individual, as they are in relation to all asylum seekers, wherever they come from. Those who are found to be at risk because of the situation in Zimbabwe will be granted asylum or other appropriate protection. For them, the question of removal does not arise. With regard to my right hon. Friend's individual case, I am happy to consider to any information that she wishes to submit.