Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what step she is taking to expedite existing applications for the ex-gratia scheme for Afghan interpreters who served alongside the armed forces.

Those who apply for and are approved for relocation under the ex gratia scheme for Afghan locally engaged staff are brought to the UK as soon as suitable accommodation has been sourced and support arrangements are in place.

The application and relocation process for those being considered under the ex gratia scheme has inevitably been impacted by COVID-19, but the Home Office is working closely with all parties to ensure, wherever possible, applications are processed in a timely manner.