Part 5Immigration and Asylum Appeals

F1Appeal to Tribunal

F281The Asylum and Immigration Tribunal

(1)

There shall be a tribunal to be known as the Asylum and Immigration Tribunal.

(2)

Schedule 4 (which makes provision about the Tribunal) shall have effect.

(3)

A reference in this Part to the Tribunal is a reference to the Asylum and Immigration Tribunal.

82 Right of appeal: general

(1)

Where an immigration decision is made in respect of a person he may appeal F3to the Tribunal .

(2)

In this Part “immigration decision” means—

(a)

refusal of leave to enter the United Kingdom,

(b)

refusal of entry clearance,

(c)

refusal of a certificate of entitlement under section 10 of this Act,

(d)

refusal to vary a person’s leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom if the result of the refusal is that the person has no leave to enter or remain,

(e)

variation of a person’s leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom if when the variation takes effect the person has no leave to enter or remain,

(f)

revocation under section 76 of this Act of indefinite leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom,

(g)

a decision that a person is to be removed from the United Kingdom by way of directions under F4section 10(1)(a), (b), (ba) or (c) of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 (c. 33) (removal of person unlawfully in United Kingdom),

(h)

a decision that an illegal entrant is to be removed from the United Kingdom by way of directions under paragraphs 8 to 10 of Schedule 2 to the Immigration Act 1971 (c. 77) (control of entry: removal),

(i)

a decision that a person is to be removed from the United Kingdom by way of directions given by virtue of paragraph 10A of that Schedule (family),

F5(ia)

a decision that a person is to be removed from the United Kingdom by way of directions under paragraph 12(2) of Schedule 2 to the Immigration Act 1971 (c. 77) (seamen and aircrews),

F6(ib)

a decision to make an order under section 2A of that Act (deprivation of right of abode),

(j)

a decision to make a deportation order under section 5(1) of that Act, and

(k)

refusal to revoke a deportation order under section 5(2) of that Act.

(3)

F7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(4)

The right of appeal under subsection (1) is subject to the exceptions and limitations specified in this Part.

83 Appeal: asylum claim

(1)

This section applies where a person has made an asylum claim and—

(a)

his claim has been rejected by the Secretary of State, but

(b)

he has been granted leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom for a period exceeding one year (or for periods exceeding one year in aggregate).

(2)

The person may appeal F8to the Tribunal against the rejection of his asylum claim.

F983AAppeal: variation of limited leave

(1)

This section applies where—

(a)

a person has made an asylum claim,

(b)

he was granted limited leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom as a refugee within the meaning of the Refugee Convention,

(c)

a decision is made that he is not a refugee, and

(d)

following the decision specified in paragraph (c) he has limited leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom otherwise than as a refugee.

(2)

The person may appeal to the Tribunal against the decision to curtail or to refuse to extend his limited leave.

84 Grounds of appeal

(1)

An appeal under section 82(1) against an immigration decision must be brought on one or more of the following grounds—

(a)

that the decision is not in accordance with immigration rules;

(b)

that the decision is unlawful by virtue of section 19B of the Race Relations Act 1976 (c. 74) (discrimination by public authorities) F10or Article 20A of the Race Relations (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 ;

(c)

that the decision is unlawful under section 6 of the Human Rights Act 1998 (c. 42) (public authority not to act contrary to Human Rights Convention) as being incompatible with the appellant’s Convention rights;

(d)

that the appellant is an EEA national or a member of the family of an EEA national and the decision breaches the appellant’s rights under the Community Treaties in respect of entry to or residence in the United Kingdom;

(e)

that the decision is otherwise not in accordance with the law;

(f)

that the person taking the decision should have exercised differently a discretion conferred by immigration rules;

(g)

that removal of the appellant from the United Kingdom in consequence of the immigration decision would breach the United Kingdom’s obligations under the Refugee Convention or would be unlawful under section 6 of the Human Rights Act 1998 as being incompatible with the appellant’s Convention rights.

(2)

In subsection (1)(d) “EEA national” means a national of a State which is a contracting party to the Agreement on the European Economic Area signed at Oporto on 2nd May 1992 (as it has effect from time to time).

(3)

An appeal under section 83 must be brought on the grounds that removal of the appellant from the United Kingdom would breach the United Kingdom’s obligations under the Refugee Convention.

F11(4)

An appeal under section 83A must be brought on the grounds that removal of the appellant from the United Kingdom would breach the United Kingdom's obligations under the Refugee Convention.

85 Matters to be considered

(1)

An appeal under section 82(1) against a decision shall be treated by F12the Tribunal as including an appeal against any decision in respect of which the appellant has a right of appeal under section 82(1).

(2)

If an appellant under section 82(1) makes a statement under section 120, F12the Tribunal shall consider any matter raised in the statement which constitutes a ground of appeal of a kind listed in section 84(1) against the decision appealed against.

(3)

Subsection (2) applies to a statement made under section 120 whether the statement was made before or after the appeal was commenced.

(4)

On an appeal under section 82(1) F13, 83(2) or 83A(2) against a decision F14the Tribunal may consider evidence about any matter which F15it thinks relevant to the substance of the decision, including evidence which concerns a matter arising after the date of the decision.

(5)

But in relation to an appeal under section 82(1) against refusal of entry clearance or refusal of a certificate of entitlement under section 10—

(a)

subsection (4) shall not apply, and

(b)

F12the Tribunal may consider only the circumstances appertaining at the time of the decision to refuse.

F1685AMatters to be considered: new evidence: exceptions

(1)

This section sets out the exceptions mentioned in section 85(5).

(2)

Exception 1 is that in relation to an appeal under section 82(1) against an immigration decision of a kind specified in section 82(2)(b) or (c) the Tribunal may consider only the circumstances appertaining at the time of the decision.

(3)

Exception 2 applies to an appeal under section 82(1) if—

(a)

the appeal is against an immigration decision of a kind specified in section 82(2)(a) or (d),

(b)

the immigration decision concerned an application of a kind identified in immigration rules as requiring to be considered under a “Points Based System”, and

(c)

the appeal relies wholly or partly on grounds specified in section 84(1)(a), (e) or (f).

(4)

Where Exception 2 applies the Tribunal may consider evidence adduced by the appellant only if it—

(a)

was submitted in support of, and at the time of making, the application to which the immigration decision related,

(b)

relates to the appeal in so far as it relies on grounds other than those specified in subsection (3)(c),

(c)

is adduced to prove that a document is genuine or valid, or

(d)

is adduced in connection with the Secretary of State's reliance on a discretion under immigration rules, or compliance with a requirement of immigration rules, to refuse an application on grounds not related to the acquisition of “points” under the “Points Based System”.

F17(5)

Tribunal Procedure Rules may make provision, for the purposes of subsection (4)(a), about the circumstances in which evidence is to be treated, or not treated, as submitted in support of, and at the time of making, an application.

86 Determination of appeal

(1)

This section applies on an appeal under section 82(1) F18, 83 or 83A.

(2)

F19The Tribunal must determine—

(a)

any matter raised as a ground of appeal (whether or not by virtue of section 85(1)), and

(b)

any matter which section 85 requires F20it to consider.

(3)

F19The Tribunal must allow the appeal in so far as F21it thinks that—

(a)

a decision against which the appeal is brought or is treated as being brought was not in accordance with the law (including immigration rules), or

(b)

a discretion exercised in making a decision against which the appeal is brought or is treated as being brought should have been exercised differently.

(4)

For the purposes of subsection (3) a decision that a person should be removed from the United Kingdom under a provision shall not be regarded as unlawful if it could have been lawfully made by reference to removal under another provision.

(5)

In so far as subsection (3) does not apply, F19the Tribunal shall dismiss the appeal.

(6)

Refusal to depart from or to authorise departure from immigration rules is not the exercise of a discretion for the purposes of subsection (3)(b).

87 Successful appeal: direction

(1)

If F22the Tribunal allows an appeal under section 82 F23, 83 or 83AF24it may give a direction for the purpose of giving effect to F25its decision.

(2)

A person responsible for making an immigration decision shall act in accordance with any relevant direction under subsection (1).

F26(3)

But a direction under this section shall not have effect while—

(a)

an application under section 103A(1) (other than an application out of time with permission) could be made or is awaiting determination,

(b)

reconsideration of an appeal has been ordered under section 103A(1) and has not been completed,

(c)

an appeal has been remitted to the Tribunal and is awaiting determination,

(d)

an application under section 103B or 103E for permission to appeal (other than an application out of time with permission) could be made or is awaiting determination,

(e)

an appeal under section 103B or 103E is awaiting determination, or

(f)

a reference under section 103C is awaiting determination.

(4)

A direction under subsection (1) shall be treated F27as part of the Tribunal’s decision on the appeal for the purposes of section 103A .

Exceptions and limitations

88 Ineligibility

(1)

This section applies to an immigration decision of a kind referred to in section 82(2)(a), (b), (d) or (e).

(2)

A person may not appeal under section 82(1) against an immigration decision which is taken on the grounds that he or a person of whom he is a dependant—

(a)

does not satisfy a requirement as to age, nationality or citizenship specified in immigration rules,

(b)

does not have an immigration document of a particular kind (or any immigration document),

F28(ba)

has failed to supply a medical report or a medical certificate in accordance with a requirement of immigration rules,

(c)

is seeking to be in the United Kingdom for a period greater than that permitted in his case by immigration rules, or

(d)

is seeking to enter or remain in the United Kingdom for a purpose other than one for which entry or remaining is permitted in accordance with immigration rules.

(3)

In subsection (2)(b) “immigration document” means—

(a)

entry clearance,

(b)

a passport,

(c)

a work permit or other immigration employment document within the meaning of section 122, and

(d)

a document which relates to a national of a country other than the United Kingdom and which is designed to serve the same purpose as a passport.

(4)

Subsection (2) does not prevent the bringing of an appeal on any or all of the grounds referred to in section 84(1)(b), (c) and (g).

F2988AIneligibility: entry clearance

(1)

A person may not appeal under section 82(1) against refusal of entry clearance if the decision to refuse is taken on grounds which—

(a)

relate to a provision of immigration rules, and

(b)

are specified for the purpose of this section by order of the Secretary of State.

(2)

Subsection (1)—

(a)

does not prevent the bringing of an appeal on either or both of the grounds referred to in section 84(1)(b) and (c), and

(b)

is without prejudice to the effect of section 88 in relation to an appeal under section 82(1) against refusal of entry clearance.

F3089Refusal of leave to enter

(1)

A person may not appeal under section 82(1) against refusal of leave to enter the United Kingdom unless—

(a)

on his arrival in the United Kingdom he had entry clearance, and

(b)

the purpose of entry specified in the entry clearance is the same as that specified in his application for leave to enter.

(2)

Subsection (1) does not prevent the bringing of an appeal on any or all of the grounds referred to in section 84(1)(b), (c) and (g).

F3190 Non-family visitor

(1)

A person who applies for entry clearance for the purpose of entering the United Kingdom as a visitor may appeal under section 82(1) against refusal of entry clearance only if the application was made for the purpose of visiting a member of the applicant’s family.

(2)

In subsection (1) the reference to a member of the applicant’s family shall be construed in accordance with regulations.

(3)

Regulations under subsection (2) may, in particular, make provision wholly or partly by reference to the duration of two individuals’ residence together.

(4)

Subsection (1) does not prevent the bringing of an appeal on either or both of the grounds referred to in section 84(1)(b) and (c).

F3291 Student

(1)

A person may not appeal under section 82(1) against refusal of entry clearance if he seeks it—

(a)

in order to follow a course of study for which he has been accepted and which will not last more than six months,

(b)

in order to study but without having been accepted for a course, or

(c)

as the dependant of a person seeking entry clearance for a purpose described in paragraph (a) or (b).

(2)

Subsection (1) does not prevent the bringing of an appeal on either or both of the grounds referred to in section 84(1)(b) and (c).

92 Appeal from within United Kingdom: general

(1)

A person may not appeal under section 82(1) while he is in the United Kingdom unless his appeal is of a kind to which this section applies.

(2)

This section applies to an appeal against an immigration decision of a kind specified in section 82(2)(c), (d), (e), (f) and (j).

F33(3)

This section also applies to an appeal against refusal of leave to enter the United Kingdom if—

(a)

at the time of the refusal the appellant is in the United Kingdom, and

(b)

on his arrival in the United Kingdom the appellant had entry clearance.

(3A)

But this section does not apply by virtue of subsection (3) if subsection (3B) or (3C) applies to the refusal of leave to enter.

(3B)

This subsection applies to a refusal of leave to enter which is a deemed refusal under paragraph 2A(9) of Schedule 2 to the Immigration Act 1971 (c. 77) resulting from cancellation of leave to enter by an immigration officer—

(a)

under paragraph 2A(8) of that Schedule, and

(b)

on the grounds specified in paragraph 2A(2A) of that Schedule.

(3C)

This subsection applies to a refusal of leave to enter which specifies that the grounds for refusal are that the leave is sought for a purpose other than that specified in the entry clearance.

(3D)

This section also applies to an appeal against refusal of leave to enter the United Kingdom if at the time of the refusal the appellant—

(a)

is in the United Kingdom,

(b)

has a work permit, and

(c)

is any of the following (within the meaning of the British Nationality Act 1981 (c. 61))—

(i)

a British overseas territories citizen,

(ii)

a British Overseas citizen,

(iii)

a British National (Overseas),

(iv)

a British protected person, or

(v)

a British subject.

(4)

This section also applies to an appeal against an immigration decision if the appellant—

(a)

has made an asylum claim, or a human rights claim, while in the United Kingdom, or

(b)

is an EEA national or a member of the family of an EEA national and makes a claim to the Secretary of State that the decision breaches the appellant’s rights under the Community Treaties in respect of entry to or residence in the United Kingdom.

93 Appeal from within United Kingdom: “third country” removal

F34. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

94 Appeal from within United Kingdom: unfounded human rights or asylum claim

(1)

This section applies to an appeal under section 82(1) where the appellant has made an asylum claim or a human rights claim (or both).

F35(1A)

A person may not bring an appeal against an immigration decision of a kind specified in section 82(2)(c), (d) or (e) in reliance on section 92(2) if the Secretary of State certifies that the claim or claims mentioned in subsection (1) above is or are clearly unfounded.

(2)

A person may not bring an appeal to which this section applies F36in reliance on section 92(4)(a) if the Secretary of State certifies that the claim or claims mentioned in subsection (1) is or are clearly unfounded.

(3)

If the Secretary of State is satisfied that an asylum claimant or human rights claimant is entitled to reside in a State listed in subsection (4) he shall certify the claim under subsection (2) unless satisfied that it is not clearly unfounded.

(4)

Those States are—

(a)

F37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(b)

F37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(c)

F37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(d)

F37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(e)

F37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(f)

F37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(g)

F37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(h)

F37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(i)

F37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(j)

F37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F38(k)

the Republic of Albania,

(l)

Bulgaria,

(m)

Serbia and Montenegro,

(n)

Jamaica,

(o)

Macedonia,

(p)

the Republic of Moldova, and

(q)

Romania.

F39(r)

F40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(s)

Bolivia,

(t)

Brazil,

(u)

Ecuador,

(v)

F41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(w)

South Africa, and

(x)

Ukraine.

F42(y)

India.

F43(z)

Mongolia,

(aa)

Ghana (in respect of men),

(bb)

Nigeria (in respect of men).

(5)

The Secretary of State may by order add a State, or part of a State, to the list in subsection (4) if satisfied that—

(a)

there is in general in that State or part no serious risk of persecution of persons entitled to reside in that State or part, and

(b)

removal to that State or part of persons entitled to reside there will not in general contravene the United Kingdom’s obligations under the Human Rights Convention.

F44(5A)

If the Secretary of State is satisfied that the statements in subsection (5) (a) and (b) are true of a State or part of a State in relation to a description of person, an order under subsection (5) may add the State or part to the list in subsection (4) in respect of that description of person.

(5B)

Where a State or part of a State is added to the list in subsection (4) in respect of a description of person, subsection (3) shall have effect in relation to a claimant only if the Secretary of State is satisfied that he is within that description (as well as being satisfied that he is entitled to reside in the State or part).

(5C)

A description for the purposes of subsection (5A) may refer to—

(a)

gender,

(b)

language,

(c)

race,

(d)

religion,

(e)

nationality,

(f)

membership of a social or other group,

(g)

political opinion, or

(h)

any other attribute or circumstance that the Secretary of State thinks appropriate.

F45(6)

The Secretary of State may by order amend the list in subsection (4) so as to omit a State or part added under subsection (5); and the omission may be—

(a)

general, or

(b)

effected so that the State or part remains listed in respect of a description of person.

F46(6A)

Subsection (3) shall not apply in relation to an asylum claimant or human rights claimant who—

(a)

is the subject of a certificate under section 2 or 70 of the Extradition Act 2003 (c. 41),

(b)

is in custody pursuant to arrest under section 5 of that Act,

(c)

is the subject of a provisional warrant under section 73 of that Act,

(d)

is the subject of an authority to proceed under section 7 of the Extradition Act 1989 (c. 33) or an order under paragraph 4(2) of Schedule 1 to that Act, or

(e)

is the subject of a provisional warrant under section 8 of that Act or of a warrant under paragraph 5(1)(b) of Schedule 1 to that Act.

(7)

A person may not bring an appeal to which this section applies in reliance on section 92(4) if the Secretary of State certifies that—

(a)

it is proposed to remove the person to a country of which he is not a national or citizen, and

(b)

there is no reason to believe that the person’s rights under the Human Rights Convention will be breached in that country.

(8)

In determining whether a person in relation to whom a certificate has been issued under subsection (7) may be removed from the United Kingdom, the country specified in the certificate is to be regarded as—

(a)

a place where a person’s life and liberty is not threatened by reason of his race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group, or political opinion, and

(b)

a place from which a person will not be sent to another country otherwise than in accordance with the Refugee Convention.

(9)

Where a person in relation to whom a certificate is issued under this section subsequently brings an appeal under section 82(1) while outside the United Kingdom, the appeal shall be considered as if he had not been removed from the United Kingdom.

F4794AEuropean Common List of Safe Countries of Origin

(1)

The Secretary of State shall by order prescribe a list of States to be known as the “European Common List of Safe Countries of Origin”.

(2)

Subsections (3) and (4) apply where a person makes an asylum claim or a human rights claim (or both) and that person is –

(a)

a national of a State which is listed in the European Common List of Safe Countries of Origin, or

(b)

a Stateless person who was formerly habitually resident in such a State.

(3)

The Secretary of State shall consider the claim or claims mentioned in subsection (2) to be unfounded unless satisfied that there are serious grounds for considering that the State in question is not safe in the particular circumstances of the person mentioned in that subsection.

(4)

The Secretary of State shall also certify the claim or claims mentioned in subsection (2) under section 94(2) unless satisfied that the claim or claims is or are not clearly unfounded.

(5)

An order under subsection (1) –

(a)

may be made only if the Secretary of State thinks it necessary for the purpose of complying with the United Kingdom's obligations under Community law,

(b)

may include transitional, consequential or incidental provision,

(c)

shall be made by statutory instrument, and

(d)

shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

95 Appeal from outside United Kingdom: removal

A person who is outside the United Kingdom may not appeal under section 82(1) on the ground specified in section 84(1)(g) (except in a case to which section 94(9) applies).

96 Earlier right of appeal

F48(1)

An appeal under section 82(1) against an immigration decision (“the new decision”) in respect of a person may not be brought if the Secretary of State or an immigration officer certifies—

(a)

that the person was notified of a right of appeal under that section against another immigration decision (“the old decision”) (whether or not an appeal was brought and whether or not any appeal brought has been determined),

(b)

that the claim or application to which the new decision relates relies on a matter that could have been raised in an appeal against the old decision, and

(c)

that, in the opinion of the Secretary of State or the immigration officer, there is no satisfactory reason for that matter not having been raised in an appeal against the old decision.

(2)

An appeal under section 82(1) against an immigration decision (“the new decision”) in respect of a person may not be brought if the Secretary of State or an immigration officer certifies—

(a)

that the person received a notice under section 120 by virtue of an application other than that to which the new decision relates or by virtue of a decision other than the new decision,

(b)

that the new decision relates to an application or claim which relies on a matter that should have been, but has not been, raised in a statement made in response to that notice, and

(c)

that, in the opinion of the Secretary of State or the immigration officer, there is no satisfactory reason for that matter not having been raised in a statement made in response to that notice.

(4)

In subsection (1) “notified” means notified in accordance with regulations under section 105.

(5)

F49Subsections (1) and (2) apply to prevent a person’s right of appeal whether or not he has been outside the United Kingdom since an earlier right of appeal arose or since a requirement under section 120 was imposed.

(6)

In this section a reference to an appeal under section 82(1) includes a reference to an appeal under section 2 of the Special Immigration Appeals Commission Act 1997 (c. 68) which is or could be brought by reference to an appeal under section 82(1).

F50(7)

A certificate under subsection (1) or (2) shall have no effect in relation to an appeal instituted before the certificate is issued.

97 National security, &c.

(1)

An appeal under section 82(1) F51, 83(2) or 83A(2) against a decision in respect of a person may not be brought or continued if the Secretary of State certifies that the decision is or was taken—

(a)

by the Secretary of State wholly or partly on a ground listed in subsection (2), or

(b)

in accordance with a direction of the Secretary of State which identifies the person to whom the decision relates and which is given wholly or partly on a ground listed in subsection (2).

(2)

The grounds mentioned in subsection (1) are that the person’s exclusion or removal from the United Kingdom is—

(a)

in the interests of national security, or

(b)

in the interests of the relationship between the United Kingdom and another country.

(3)

An appeal under section 82(1) F52, 83(2) or 83A(2) against a decision may not be brought or continued if the Secretary of State certifies that the decision is or was taken wholly or partly in reliance on information which in his opinion should not be made public—

(a)

in the interests of national security,

(b)

in the interests of the relationship between the United Kingdom and another country, or

(c)

otherwise in the public interest.

(4)

In subsections (1)(a) and (b) and (3) a reference to the Secretary of State is to the Secretary of State acting in person.

F5397ANational security: deportation

(1)

This section applies where the Secretary of State certifies that the decision to make a deportation order in respect of a person was taken on the grounds that his removal from the United Kingdom would be in the interests of national security.

(2)

Where this section applies—

(a)

section 79 shall not apply,

(b)

the Secretary of State shall be taken to have certified the decision to make the deportation order under section 97, and

(c)

for the purposes of section 2(5) of the Special Immigration Appeals Commission Act 1997 (c. 68) (appeals from within United Kingdom) it shall be assumed that section 92 of this Act—

(i)

would not apply to an appeal against the decision to make the deportation order by virtue of section 92(2) to (3D),

(ii)

would not apply to an appeal against that decision by virtue of section 92(4)(a) in respect of an asylum claim, and

(iii)

would be capable of applying to an appeal against that decision by virtue of section 92(4)(a) in respect of a human rights claim unless the Secretary of State certifies that the removal of the person from the United Kingdom would not breach the United Kingdom's obligations under the Human Rights Convention.

(3)

A person in respect of whom a certificate is issued under subsection (2)(c)(iii) may appeal to the Special Immigration Appeals Commission against the issue of the certificate; and for that purpose the Special Immigration Appeals Commission Act 1997 shall apply as to an appeal against an immigration decision to which section 92 of this Act applies.

(4)

The Secretary of State may repeal this section by order.

98 Other grounds of public good

(1)

This section applies to an immigration decision of a kind referred to in section 82(2)(a) or (b).

(2)

An appeal under section 82(1) against an immigration decision may not be brought or continued if the Secretary of State certifies that the decision is or was taken—

(a)

by the Secretary of State wholly or partly on the ground that the exclusion or removal from the United Kingdom of the person to whom the decision relates is conducive to the public good, or

(b)

in accordance with a direction of the Secretary of State which identifies the person to whom the decision relates and which is given wholly or partly on that ground.

(3)

In subsection (2)(a) and (b) a reference to the Secretary of State is to the Secretary of State acting in person.

(4)

Subsection (2) does not prevent the bringing of an appeal on either or both of the grounds referred to in section 84(1)(b) and (c).

(5)

Subsection (2) does not prevent the bringing of an appeal against an immigration decision of the kind referred to in section 82(2)(a) on the grounds referred to in section 84(1)(g).

99 Sections 96 to 98: appeal in progress

(1)

This section applies where a certificate is issued under section 96(1) or (2), 97 or 98 in respect of a pending appeal.

(2)

The appeal shall lapse.

Appeal from adjudicator

100 Immigration Appeal Tribunal

F54(1)

There shall continue to be an Immigration Appeal Tribunal.

(2)

Schedule 5 (which makes provision about the Tribunal) shall have effect.

101 Appeal to Tribunal

F55(1)

A party to an appeal to an adjudicator under section 82 or 83 may, with the permission of the Immigration Appeal Tribunal, appeal to the Tribunal against the adjudicator’s determination on a point of law.

(2)

A party to an application to the Tribunal for permission to appeal under subsection (1) may apply to the High Court or, in Scotland, to the Court of Session for a review of the Tribunal’s decision on the ground that the Tribunal made an error of law.

(3)

Where an application is made under subsection (2)—

(a)

it shall be determined by a single judge by reference only to written submissions,

(b)

the judge may affirm or reverse the Tribunal’s decision,

(c)

the judge’s decision shall be final, and

(d)

if, in an application to the High Court, the judge thinks the application had no merit he shall issue a certificate under this paragraph (which shall be dealt with in accordance with Civil Procedure Rules).

(4)

The Lord Chancellor may by order repeal subsections (2) and (3).

102 Decision

F56(1)

On an appeal under section 101 the Immigration Appeal Tribunal may—

(a)

affirm the adjudicator’s decision;

(b)

make any decision which the adjudicator could have made;

(c)

remit the appeal to an adjudicator;

(d)

affirm a direction given by the adjudicator under section 87;

(e)

vary a direction given by the adjudicator under that section;

(f)

give any direction which the adjudicator could have given under that section.

(2)

In reaching their decision on an appeal under section 101 the Tribunal may consider evidence about any matter which they think relevant to the adjudicator’s decision, including evidence which concerns a matter arising after the adjudicator’s decision.

(3)

But where the appeal under section 82 was against refusal of entry clearance or refusal of a certificate of entitlement—

(a)

subsection (2) shall not apply, and

(b)

the Tribunal may consider only the circumstances appertaining at the time of the decision to refuse.

(4)

In remitting an appeal to an adjudicator under subsection (1)(c) the Tribunal may, in particular—

(a)

require the adjudicator to determine the appeal in accordance with directions of the Tribunal;

(b)

require the adjudicator to take additional evidence with a view to the appeal being determined by the Tribunal.

103 Appeal from Tribunal

F57(1)

Where the Immigration Appeal Tribunal determines an appeal under section 101 a party to the appeal may bring a further appeal on a point of law—

(a)

where the original decision of the adjudicator was made in Scotland, to the Court of Session, or

(b)

in any other case, to the Court of Appeal.

(2)

An appeal under this section may be brought only with the permission of—

(a)

the Tribunal, or

(b)

if the Tribunal refuses permission, the court referred to in subsection (1)(a) or (b).

(3)

The remittal of an appeal to an adjudicator under section 102(1)(c) is not a determination of the appeal for the purposes of subsection (1) above.

Procedure

F58103AReview of Tribunal’s decision

(1)

A party to an appeal under section 82 F59, 83 or 83A may apply to the appropriate court, on the grounds that the Tribunal made an error of law, for an order requiring the Tribunal to reconsider its decision on the appeal.

(2)

The appropriate court may make an order under subsection (1)—

(a)

only if it thinks that the Tribunal may have made an error of law, and

(b)

only once in relation to an appeal.

(3)

An application under subsection (1) must be made—

(a)

in the case of an application by the appellant made while he is in the United Kingdom, within the period of 5 days beginning with the date on which he is treated, in accordance with rules under section 106, as receiving notice of the Tribunal’s decision,

(b)

in the case of an application by the appellant made while he is outside the United Kingdom, within the period of 28 days beginning with the date on which he is treated, in accordance with rules under section 106, as receiving notice of the Tribunal’s decision, and

(c)

in the case of an application brought by a party to the appeal other than the appellant, within the period of 5 days beginning with the date on which he is treated, in accordance with rules under section 106, as receiving notice of the Tribunal’s decision.

(4)

But—

(a)

rules of court may specify days to be disregarded in applying subsection (3)(a), (b) or (c), and

(b)

the appropriate court may permit an application under subsection (1) to be made outside the period specified in subsection (3) where it thinks that the application could not reasonably practicably have been made within that period.

(5)

An application under subsection (1) shall be determined by reference only to—

(a)

written submissions of the applicant, and

(b)

where rules of court permit, other written submissions.

(6)

A decision of the appropriate court on an application under subsection (1) shall be final.

(7)

In this section a reference to the Tribunal’s decision on an appeal does not include a reference to—

(a)

a procedural, ancillary or preliminary decision, or

(b)

a decision following remittal under section 103B, 103C or 103E.

(8)

This section does not apply to a decision of the Tribunal where its jurisdiction is exercised by three or more legally qualified members.

(9)

In this section “the appropriate court” means—

(a)

in relation to an appeal decided in England or Wales, the High Court,

(b)

in relation to an appeal decided in Scotland, the Court of Session, and

(c)

in relation to an appeal decided in Northern Ireland, the High Court in Northern Ireland.

(10)

An application under subsection (1) to the Court of Session shall be to the Outer House.

F60103BAppeal from Tribunal following reconsideration

(1)

Where an appeal to the Tribunal has been reconsidered, a party to the appeal may bring a further appeal on a point of law to the appropriate appellate court.

(2)

In subsection (1) the reference to reconsideration is to reconsideration pursuant to—

(a)

an order under section 103A(1), or

(b)

remittal to the Tribunal under this section or under section 103C or 103E.

(3)

An appeal under subsection (1) may be brought only with the permission of—

(a)

the Tribunal, or

(b)

if the Tribunal refuses permission, the appropriate appellate court.

(4)

On an appeal under subsection (1) the appropriate appellate court may—

(a)

affirm the Tribunal’s decision;

(b)

make any decision which the Tribunal could have made;

(c)

remit the case to the Tribunal;

(d)

affirm a direction under section 87;

(e)

vary a direction under section 87;

(f)

give a direction which the Tribunal could have given under section 87.

(5)

In this section “the appropriate appellate court” means—

(a)

in relation to an appeal decided in England or Wales, the Court of Appeal,

(b)

in relation to an appeal decided in Scotland, the Court of Session, and

(c)

in relation to an appeal decided in Northern Ireland, the Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland.

(6)

An appeal under subsection (1) to the Court of Session shall be to the Inner House.

F61103CAppeal from Tribunal instead of reconsideration

(1)

On an application under section 103A in respect of an appeal the appropriate court, if it thinks the appeal raises a question of law of such importance that it should be decided by the appropriate appellate court, may refer the appeal to that court.

(2)

On a reference under subsection (1) the appropriate appellate court may—

(a)

affirm the Tribunal’s decision;

(b)

make any decision which the Tribunal could have made;

(c)

remit the case to the Tribunal;

(d)

affirm a direction under section 87;

(e)

vary a direction under section 87;

(f)

give a direction which the Tribunal could have given under section 87;

(g)

restore the application under section 103A to the appropriate court.

(3)

In this section—

the appropriate court” has the same meaning as in section 103A, and

the appropriate appellate court” has the same meaning as in section 103B.

(4)

A reference under subsection (1) to the Court of Session shall be to the Inner House.

F62103DReconsideration: legal aid

(1)

On the application of an appellant under section 103A, the appropriate court may order that the appellant’s costs in respect of the application under section 103A shall be paid out of the Community Legal Service Fund established under section 5 of the Access to Justice Act 1999 (c. 22).

(2)

Subsection (3) applies where the Tribunal has decided an appeal following reconsideration pursuant to an order made—

(a)

under section 103A(1), and

(b)

on the application of the appellant.

(3)

The Tribunal may order that the appellant’s costs—

(a)

in respect of the application for reconsideration, and

(b)

in respect of the reconsideration,

shall be paid out of that Fund.

(4)

The Secretary of State may make regulations about the exercise of the powers in subsections (1) and (3).

(5)

Regulations under subsection (4) may, in particular, make provision—

(a)

specifying or providing for the determination of the amount of payments;

(b)

about the persons to whom the payments are to be made;

(c)

restricting the exercise of the power (whether by reference to the prospects of success in respect of the appeal at the time when the application for reconsideration was made, the fact that a reference has been made under section 103C(1), the circumstances of the appellant, the nature of the appellant’s legal representatives, or otherwise).

(6)

Regulations under subsection (4) may make provision—

(a)

conferring a function on the Legal Services Commission;

(b)

modifying a duty or power of the Legal Services Commission in respect of compliance with orders under subsection (3);

(c)

applying (with or without modifications), modifying or disapplying a provision of, or of anything done under, an enactment relating to the funding of legal services.

(7)

Before making regulations under subsection (4) the Secretary of State shall consult such persons as he thinks appropriate.

(8)

This section has effect only in relation to an appeal decided in—

(a)

England,

(b)

Wales, or

(c)

Northern Ireland.

(9)

In relation to an appeal decided in Northern Ireland this section shall have effect—

(a)

as if a reference to the Community Legal Service Fund were to the fund established under paragraph 4(2)(a) of Schedule 3 to the Access to Justice (Northern Ireland) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/ 435 (N.I. 10)), and

(b)

with any other necessary modifications.

F63103EAppeal from Tribunal sitting as panel

(1)

This section applies to a decision of the Tribunal on an appeal under section 82 F64, 83 or 83A where its jurisdiction is exercised by three or more legally qualified members.

(2)

A party to the appeal may bring a further appeal on a point of law to the appropriate appellate court.

(3)

An appeal under subsection (2) may be brought only with the permission of—

(a)

the Tribunal, or

(b)

if the Tribunal refuses permission, the appropriate appellate court.

(4)

On an appeal under subsection (2) the appropriate appellate court may—

(a)

affirm the Tribunal’s decision;

(b)

make any decision which the Tribunal could have made;

(c)

remit the case to the Tribunal;

(d)

affirm a direction under section 87;

(e)

vary a direction under section 87;

(f)

give a direction which the Tribunal could have given under section 87.

(5)

In this section “the appropriate appellate court” means—

(a)

in relation to an appeal decided in England or Wales, the Court of Appeal,

(b)

in relation to an appeal decided in Scotland, the Court of Session, and

(c)

in relation to an appeal decided in Northern Ireland, the Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland.

(6)

A further appeal under subsection (2) to the Court of Session shall be to the Inner House.

(7)

In this section a reference to the Tribunal’s decision on an appeal does not include a reference to—

(a)

a procedural, ancillary or preliminary decision, or

(b)

a decision following remittal under section 103B or 103C.

104 Pending appeal

(1)

An appeal under section 82(1) is pending during the period—

(a)

beginning when it is instituted, and

(b)

ending when it is finally determined, withdrawn or abandoned (or when it lapses under section 99).

F65(2)

An appeal under section 82(1) is not finally determined for the purposes of subsection (1)(b) while —

(a)

an application under section 103A(1) (other than an application out of time with permission) could be made or is awaiting determination,

(b)

reconsideration of an appeal has been ordered under section 103A(1) and has not been completed,

(c)

an appeal has been remitted to the Tribunal and is awaiting determination,

(d)

an application under section 103B or 103E for permission to appeal (other than an application out of time with permission) could be made or is awaiting determination,

(e)

an appeal under section 103B or 103E is awaiting determination, or

(f)

a reference under section 103C is awaiting determination.

(3)

F66. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F67(4)

An appeal under section 82(1) brought by a person while he is in the United Kingdom shall be treated as abandoned if the appellant leaves the United Kingdom.

(4A)

An appeal under section 82(1) brought by a person while he is in the United Kingdom shall be treated as abandoned if the appellant is granted leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom (subject to subsections (4B) and (4C)).

(4B)

Subsection (4A) shall not apply to an appeal in so far as it is brought on the ground relating to the Refugee Convention specified in section 84(1)(g) where the appellant—

(a)

is granted leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom for a period exceeding 12 months, and

(b)

gives notice, in accordance with any relevant procedural rules (which may include provision about timing), that he wishes to pursue the appeal in so far as it is brought on that ground.

(4C)

Subsection (4A) shall not apply to an appeal in so far as it is brought on the ground specified in section 84(1)(b) where the appellant gives notice, in accordance with any relevant procedural rules (which may include provision about timing), that he wishes to pursue the appeal in so far as it is brought on that ground.

(5)

An appeal under section 82(2)(a), (c), (d), (e) or (f) shall be treated as finally determined if a deportation order is made against the appellant.

105 Notice of immigration decision

(1)

The Secretary of State may make regulations requiring a person to be given written notice where an immigration decision is taken in respect of him.

(2)

The regulations may, in particular, provide that a notice under subsection (1) of a decision against which the person is entitled to appeal under section 82(1) must state—

(a)

that there is a right of appeal under that section, and

(b)

how and when that right may be exercised.

(3)

The regulations may make provision (which may include presumptions) about service.

106 Rules

(1)

The Lord Chancellor may make rules—

(a)

regulating the exercise of the right of appeal under section 82 F68F69, 83 or 83A or by virtue of section 109 ;

(b)

prescribing procedure to be followed in connection with proceedings under section 82 F70F71, 83 or 83A or by virtue of section 109 .

F72(1A)

In making rules under subsection (1) the Lord Chancellor shall aim to ensure—

(a)

that the rules are designed to ensure that proceedings before the Tribunal are handled as fairly, quickly and efficiently as possible, and

(b)

that the rules where appropriate confer on members of the Tribunal responsibility for ensuring that proceedings before the Tribunal are handled as fairly, quickly and efficiently as possible.

(2)

In particular, rules under subsection (1)—

(a)

must entitle an appellant to be legally represented at any hearing of his appeal;

(b)

may enable or require an appeal to be determined without a hearing;

(c)

may enable or require an appeal to be dismissed without substantive consideration where practice or procedure has not been complied with;

(d)

may enable or require F73the Tribunal to treat an appeal as abandoned in specified circumstances;

(e)

may enable or require F74. . . the Tribunal to determine an appeal in the absence of parties in specified circumstances;

(f)

may enable or require F74. . . the Tribunal to determine an appeal by reference only to written submissions in specified circumstances;

(g)

may make provision about the adjournment of an appeal by F75the Tribunal(which may include provision prohibiting F75the Tribunal from adjourning except in specified circumstances);

(h)

may make provision about the treatment of adjourned appeals by F76the Tribunal(which may include provision requiring F76the Tribunal to determine an appeal within a specified period);

(i)

may make provision about the use of electronic communication in the course of or in connection with a hearing;

(j)

F77. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(k)

F77. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(l)

may enable the Tribunal to set aside a decision of the Tribunal;

(m)

must make provision about the consolidation of appeals F78. . . ;

(n)

may make provision (which may include presumptions) about service;

(o)

may confer ancillary powers on F79. . . the Tribunal;

(p)

may confer a discretion on F80. . . the Tribunal;

(q)

may require F81. . . the Tribunal to give notice of a determination to a specified person;

(r)

may require or enable notice of a determination to be given on behalf of F82. . . the Tribunal;

(s)

may make provision about the grant of bail by F83. . . the Tribunal (which may, in particular, include provision which applies or is similar to any enactment).

F84(t)

may make provision about the number of members exercising the Tribunal’s jurisdiction;

(u)

may make provision about the allocation of proceedings among members of the Tribunal (which may include provision for transfer);

(v)

may make provision about reconsideration of a decision pursuant to an order under section 103A(1) (which may, in particular, include provision about the action that may be taken on reconsideration and about the matters and evidence to which the Tribunal may have regard);

(w)

shall provide that a party to an appeal is to be treated as having received notice of the Tribunal’s decision, unless the contrary is shown, at such time as may be specified in, or determined in accordance with, the rules;

(x)

may make provision about proceedings under paragraph 30 of Schedule 2 to the Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants, etc.) Act 2004 (transitional filter of applications for reconsideration from High Court to Tribunal) (and may, in particular, make provision of a kind that may be made by rules of court under section 103A(5)(b));

(y)

may make provision about the form and content of decisions of the Tribunal.

(3)

Rules under subsection (1)—

(a)

may enable F85. . . the Tribunal to make an award of costs or expenses,

(b)

may make provision (which may include provision conferring discretion on a court) for the taxation or assessment of costs or expenses,

(c)

may make provision about interest on an award of costs or expenses (which may include provision conferring a discretion or providing for interest to be calculated in accordance with provision made by the rules),

(d)

may enable F86. . . the Tribunal to disallow all or part of a representative’s costs or expenses,

(e)

may enable F87. . . the Tribunal to require a representative to pay specified costs or expenses, and

F88(f)

may enable the Tribunal to certify that an appeal had no merit (and shall make provision for the consequences of the issue of a certificate).

(4)

A person commits an offence if without reasonable excuse he fails to comply with a requirement imposed in accordance with rules under subsection (1) to attend before F89. . . the Tribunal—

(a)

to give evidence, or

(b)

to produce a document.

(5)

A person who is guilty of an offence under subsection (4) shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale.

107 Practice directions

(1)

The President of F90the Tribunal may give directions as to the practice to be followed by the Tribunal.

(2)

F91. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F92(3)

A practice direction may, in particular, require the Tribunal to treat a specified decision of the Tribunal as authoritative in respect of a particular matter.

108 Forged document: proceedings in private

(1)

This section applies where it is alleged—

(a)

that a document relied on by a party to an appeal under section 82 F93, 83 or 83A is a forgery, and

(b)

that disclosure to that party of a matter relating to the detection of the forgery would be contrary to the public interest.

(2)

F94The Tribunal

(a)

must investigate the allegation in private, and

(b)

may proceed in private so far as necessary to prevent disclosure of the matter referred to in subsection (1)(b).

General

109 European Union and European Economic Area

(1)

Regulations may provide for, or make provision about, an appeal against an immigration decision taken in respect of a person who has or claims to have a right under any of the Community Treaties.

(2)

The regulations may—

(a)

apply a provision of this Act or the Special Immigration Appeals Commission Act 1997 (c. 68) with or without modification;

(b)

make provision similar to a provision made by or under this Act or that Act;

(c)

disapply or modify the effect of a provision of this Act or that Act.

(3)

In subsection (1) “immigration decision” means a decision about—

(a)

a person’s entitlement to enter or remain in the United Kingdom, or

(b)

removal of a person from the United Kingdom.

110 Grants

F95(1)

The Secretary of State may make a grant to a voluntary organisation which provides—

(a)

advice or assistance to persons who have a right of appeal under this Part;

(b)

other services for the welfare of those persons.

(2)

A grant under this section may be subject to terms or conditions (which may include conditions as to repayment).

111 Monitor of certification of claims as unfounded

(1)

The Secretary of State shall appoint a person to monitor the use of the powers under sections 94(2) and 115(1).

(2)

The person appointed under this section shall make a report to the Secretary of State—

(a)

once in each calendar year, and

(b)

on such occasions as the Secretary of State may request.

(3)

Where the Secretary of State receives a report under subsection (2)(a) he shall lay a copy before Parliament as soon as is reasonably practicable.

(4)

The person appointed under this section shall hold and vacate office in accordance with the terms of his appointment (which may include provision about retirement, resignation or dismissal).

(5)

The Secretary of State may—

(a)

pay fees and allowances to the person appointed under this section;

(b)

defray expenses of the person appointed under this section.

(6)

A person who is employed within a government department may not be appointed under this section.

112 Regulations, &c.

(1)

Regulations under this Part shall be made by the Secretary of State.

(2)

Regulations and rules under this Part F96, other than regulations under section 103D(4),

(a)

must be made by statutory instrument, and

(b)

shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

(3)

Regulations and rules under this Part—

(a)

may make provision which applies generally or only in a specified case or in specified circumstances,

(b)

may make different provision for different cases or circumstances,

(c)

may include consequential, transitional or incidental provision, and

(d)

may include savings.

F97(3A)

An order under section 88A—

(a)

must be made by statutory instrument,

(b)

may not be made unless a draft has been laid before and approved by resolution of each House of Parliament, and

(c)

may include transitional provision.

(4)

An order under section 94(5) or 115(8)—

(a)

must be made by statutory instrument,

(b)

may not be made unless a draft has been laid before and approved by resolution of each House of Parliament, and

(c)

may include transitional provision.

(5)

An order under section F9894(6) or (6B) or 115(9)—

(a)

must be made by statutory instrument,

(b)

shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament, and

(c)

may include transitional provision.

F99(5A)

If an instrument makes provision under section 94(5) and 94(6)—

(a)

subsection (4)(b) above shall apply, and

(b)

subsection (5)(b) above shall not apply.

F100(5B)

An order under section 97A(4)—

(a)

must be made by statutory instrument,

(b)

shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament, and

(c)

may include transitional provision.

F101(6)

Regulations under section 103D(4)—

(a)

must be made by statutory instrument, and

(b)

shall not be made unless a draft has been laid before and approved by resolution of each House of Parliament.

(7)

An order under paragraph 4 of Schedule 4—

(a)

may include consequential or incidental provision (which may include provision amending, or providing for the construction of, a reference in an enactment, instrument or other document to a member of the Asylum and Immigration Tribunal),

(b)

must be made by statutory instrument, and

(c)

shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

113 Interpretation

(1)

In this Part, unless a contrary intention appears—

asylum claim” means a claim made by a person to the Secretary of State at a place designated by the Secretary of State that to remove the person from or require him to leave the United Kingdom would breach the United Kingdom’s obligations under the Refugee Convention,

entry clearance” has the meaning given by section 33(1) of the Immigration Act 1971 (c. 77) (interpretation),

human rights claim” means a claim made by a person to the Secretary of State at a place designated by the Secretary of State that to remove the person from or require him to leave the United Kingdom would be unlawful under section 6 of the Human Rights Act 1998 (c. 42) (public authority not to act contrary to Convention) as being incompatible with his Convention rights,

the Human Rights Convention” has the same meaning as “the Convention” in the Human Rights Act 1998 and “Convention rights” shall be construed in accordance with section 1 of that Act,

illegal entrant” has the meaning given by section 33(1) of the Immigration Act 1971,

immigration rules” means rules under section 1(4) of that Act (general immigration rules),

prescribed” means prescribed by regulations,

the Refugee Convention” means the Convention relating to the Status of Refugees done at Geneva on 28th July 1951 and its Protocol,

visitor” means a visitor in accordance with immigration rules, and

work permit” has the meaning given by section 33(1) of the Immigration Act 1971 (c. 77) (interpretation).

(2)

A reference to varying leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom does not include a reference to adding, varying or revoking a condition of leave.

114 Repeal

(1)

Part IV of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 (c. 33) (appeals) shall cease to have effect.

(2)

Schedule 6 (which makes transitional provision in connection with the repeal of Part IV of that Act and its replacement by this Part) shall have effect.

(3)

Schedule 7 (consequential amendments) shall have effect.

Annotations:
Commencement Information

I2S. 114 wholly in force at 1.4.2003; s. 114 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 162(2); s. 114(3) in force at 10.2.2003 by S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.; s. 114(1)(2) in force at 1.4.2003 by S.I. 2003/754, art. 2, Sch. 1

115 Appeal from within United Kingdom: unfounded human rights or asylum claim: transitional provision

(1)

A person may not bring an appeal under section 65 or 69 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 (human rights and asylum) while in the United Kingdom if—

(a)

the Secretary of State certifies that the appeal relates to a human rights claim or an asylum claim which is clearly unfounded, and

(b)

the person does not have another right of appeal while in the United Kingdom under Part IV of that Act.

(2)

A person while in the United Kingdom may not bring an appeal under section 69 of that Act, or raise a question which relates to the Human Rights Convention under section 77 of that Act, if the Secretary of State certifies that—

(a)

it is proposed to remove the person to a country of which he is not a national or citizen, and

(b)

there is no reason to believe that the person’s rights under the Human Rights Convention will be breached in that country.

(3)

A person while in the United Kingdom may not bring an appeal under section 65 of that Act (human rights) if the Secretary of State certifies that—

(a)

it is proposed to remove the person to a country of which he is not a national or citizen, and

(b)

there is no reason to believe that the person’s rights under the Human Rights Convention will be breached in that country.

(4)

In determining whether a person in relation to whom a certificate has been issued under subsection (2) or (3) may be removed from the United Kingdom, the country specified in the certificate is to be regarded as—

(a)

a place where a person’s life and liberty is not threatened by reason of his race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group, or political opinion, and

(b)

a place from which a person will not be sent to another country otherwise than in accordance with the Refugee Convention.

(5)

Where a person in relation to whom a certificate is issued under this section subsequently brings an appeal or raises a question under section 65, 69 or 77 of that Act while outside the United Kingdom, the appeal or question shall be considered as if he had not been removed from the United Kingdom.

(6)

If the Secretary of State is satisfied that a person who makes a human rights claim or an asylum claim is entitled to reside in a State listed in subsection (7), he shall issue a certificate under subsection (1) unless satisfied that the claim is not clearly unfounded.

(7)

Those States are—

(a)

the Republic of Cyprus,

(b)

the Czech Republic,

(c)

the Republic of Estonia,

(d)

the Republic of Hungary,

(e)

the Republic of Latvia,

(f)

the Republic of Lithuania,

(g)

the Republic of Malta,

(h)

the Republic of Poland,

(i)

the Slovak Republic, and

(j)

the Republic of Slovenia.

F102(k)

the Republic of Albania,

(l)

Bulgaria,

(m)

Serbia and Montenegro,

(n)

Jamaica,

(o)

Macedonia,

(p)

the Republic of Moldova, and

(q)

Romania.

(8)

The Secretary of State may by order add a State, or part of a State, to the list in subsection (7) if satisfied that—

(a)

there is in general in that State or part no serious risk of persecution of persons entitled to reside in that State or part, and

(b)

removal to that State or part of persons entitled to reside there will not in general contravene the United Kingdom’s obligations under the Human Rights Convention.

(9)

The Secretary of State may by order remove from the list in subsection (7) a State or part added under subsection (8).

(10)

In this section “asylum claim” and “human rights claim” have the meanings given by section 113 but—

(a)

a reference to a claim in that section shall be treated as including a reference to an allegation, and

(b)

a reference in that section to making a claim at a place designated by the Secretary of State shall be ignored.

116 Special Immigration Appeals Commission: Community Legal Service

In paragraph 2(1) of Schedule 2 to the Access to Justice Act 1999 (c. 22) (Community Legal Service: courts and tribunals in which advocacy may be funded) the following shall be inserted after paragraph (h) (and before the word “or” which appears immediately after that paragraph)—

“(ha)

the Special Immigration Appeals Commission,”.

117 Northern Ireland appeals: legal aid

(1)

In Part 1 of Schedule 1 to the Legal Aid, Advice and Assistance (Northern Ireland) Order 1981 (S.I. 1981/228 (N.I. 8)) (proceedings for which legal aid may be given under Part II of that Order) the following shall be inserted after paragraph 6—

“6A

Proceedings before an adjudicator appointed for the purposes of Part 5 of the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002, the Immigration Appeal Tribunal or the Special Immigration Appeals Commission.”

(2)

The amendment made by subsection (1) is without prejudice to the power to make regulations under Article 10(2) of the Legal Aid, Advice and Assistance (Northern Ireland) Order 1981 amending or revoking the provision inserted by that subsection.