Member

Finally, on Amendments 203B and 203C, introduced by the noble Baroness, Lady Kennedy, this Committee will know that the BNO visa route has been a vital scheme, reflecting our historic obligations and our modern responsibilities. It has provided a lifeline to many who sought refuge here and it has been source of pride that the United Kingdom has upheld it with fairness and dignity. Amendment 203B seeks to place the BNO on a statutory footing. I can understand the motivation behind that: to provide reassurance and stability to those who have already made their lives here and who rely on the existing pathway to settlement after five years of lawful residence. That principle of safeguarding continuity in such a scheme is one that I support.