asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what was the number of Tamils arriving in the United Kingdom over the last six months claiming political asylum; if his Department maintains any record of the places where such claimants reside whilst their claims are being considered; and if he will make a statement.

In the 12 months ending on 30 April 1985 some 350 Sri Lankan nationals are recorded as having sought asylum or expressed a fear of return upon arrival at a United Kingdom port. These records do not identify Tamils separately.Since 1 May 1985 1,330 Sri Lankan Tamils are recorded as having sought asylum or expressed a fear of return on arrival. No central record is maintained of addresses to which those granted temporary admission proceed.