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Member

Speaking in the House of Lords on 10 July 2025

Debate

Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill

Contribution

To date, the collection of biometrics during evacuations has happened; it is not an unusual circumstance. During Operation Pitting in Afghanistan in 2021, initial biometric collection was done on arrival in the UK. In Sudan in 2023, biometric checks were undertaken in third countries such as Saudi Arabia before onward travel to the UK. In Gaza in 2023, following the disgraceful Hamas attacks in Israel, the FCDO facilitated the exit of British nationals and other eligible persons from Gaza into either Egypt or Jordan. In some instances, this included individuals who had never previously submitted biometric information as part of a visa application.

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