To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what percentage of those listed as being removed from the UK in 2006 were removed at a port; and if she will make a statement. (183008)

Of the 63,865 removals from the UK in 2006, 34,825 (55 per cent.) were persons refused entry at port and subsequently removed. This proves the success and strength of our border and juxtaposed controls. Figures are rounded to the nearest five and are provisional.

National Statistics on immigration and asylum are available from the Library of the House and the Home Office's Research, Development and Statistics website at:

http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/immigration-asylum-stats.html