To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what research his Department has commissioned into the impact of detention on children in asylum seeking families. [111263]

We have not commissioned any research into the impact of detention on children in asylum seeking families.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department under what powers he detains children who are seeking asylum. [111264]

Families with children who are seeking asylum may be detained under the detention powers contained in paragraph 16 of Schedule 2 to the Immigration Act 1971. Detention in such cases would normally be used in the following circumstances: initially, while identity and basis of claim are being established; where there is a risk of failure to comply with the terms of temporary admission or release; or to effect removal from the United Kingdom. In addition, detention may be appropriate if it appears that the asylum claim is straightforward and capable of being decided quickly using fast-track procedures.Unaccompanied asylum seeking children are only ever detained in the most exceptional circumstances and then normally only overnight, with appropriate care, while alternative arrangements for their care and safety are made.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what measures are being taken to encourage asylum seekers from Iraq living in the United Kingdom to return to their home country. [111298]

We are working now to ensure that Iraqis can be assisted to return to their homeland as soon as practicable. Many Iraqis in the UK have skills which will be of value to the reconstruction of Iraq. The government are committed to helping clear the way for them to do so. We will work closely with the Iraqi communities in the UK and sector experts on voluntary return.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many Asylum and Immigration cases were actioned by hon. Members in the last 12 months. [111769]

The Home Office received a total of 33,895 written inquiries and representations from hon. Members on asylum and immigration cases during the period 1 April 2002—31 March 2003.