Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what assessment he has made over the effect of denied spousal visas on families across the UK.

The Supreme Court has upheld the lawfulness of the requirements of the Immigration Rules for spouse visas. The Rules, which include the minimum income and English language requirements, prevent burdens on the taxpayer and promote integration. The Supreme Court agreed that they strike a fair balance between the interests of those wishing to sponsor a non-European Economic Area national spouse to settle in the UK and of the community in general.

We continue to keep the family Immigration Rules under review and make adjustments in light of feedback on their operation and impact. Our overall assessment is that the family Immigration Rules are having the right impact and are helping to ensure public confidence in the immigration system.