Member

The definition of “close relative” in the Immigration Rules includes a wide range of family members, such as siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles, so we also have an appropriate definition of “sponsors”. The removal of the financial requirements in the Immigration Rules would pose a real risk of putting significant additional burdens on taxpayers. That might be something the House wants to disregard, but I have to draw it to the attention of the House in responding to my noble friend’s amendment. It would result in further pressures on local services and the local authorities that may have to accommodate and support those new arrivals. It is our policy intention that these should be waived only in the most exceptional of circumstances.