asked Her Majesty's Government:

How they monitor the ways in which the Border and Immigration Agency handles gender issues; whether they are planning any improvements to current practice; and, if so, what kind of improvements.

The Border and Immigration Agency's approach to gender issues is set out in its three-strand equality scheme, which came into effect on 30 April 2007.

The scheme sets out specific outcomes which must be achieved, and these will be monitored internally. The agency will also collect data to ascertain whether and where avoidable disadvantage occurs as a result of its practices on the grounds of gender. Improvements to current practice will be made when these are identified as necessary, though it is not possible at present to be specific.

The progress of the scheme will be reported annually, and the report published, which will ensure transparency.