To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department for what reasons the UK Border Agency did not issue a visa in connection with Fairtrade Fortnight to (a) Lina Mahmoud, (b) Belal Eid and (c) Nahed Besharieh; and if he will make a statement. (322326)

The applications were refused as the entry clearance officer was not satisfied they met the requirements of the immigration rules. The reasons for refusal were set out in the refusal notices issued to the applicants. In light of further information received, the decision was made to issue visas. However, it has not been possible to contact the applicants to make arrangements.