To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many applications for UK citizenship have been determined in the last 12 months; and what the mean average time taken from receipt of the application until its determination was. [130467]
129,535 applications for UK citizenship were determined in the United Kingdom in 2002, of which 120,145 applications were granted and 9,385 were refused. This is the latest information available and figures are rounded to the nearest five.There are no data published on actual decision times to determine applications for British citizenship. Information on expected waiting times for citizenship applications are available on the Immigration and Nationality Directorate website; www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk and is periodically updated. As at July 2003 the expected average processing times were:
| Months | |
| Naturalisation | 8.8 |
| Adult registrations | 3.5 |
| Minor registrations | 8 |
| Other registrations | 2.3 |
However, this time may be significantly reduced if all relevant documents are sent with the application form.
To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when the application for UK citizenship from Mr. Grieve of Fordingbridge was first received by his Department; when the application will be determined: and if he will make a statement. [130468]
The application was received on 18 May 2000. The application has necessitated extensive inquiries which we expect to finalise shortly.