Question on wrongfully revoked overseas student visas from Lord Taylor

Written question answered on Monday 14 May 2018

Lord Taylor of Warwick (non-affiliated) asked Her Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of reports that up to 7,000 foreign students had their visas wrongfully revoked; and what assessment, if any, they have made of the circumstances which led to that outcome.

Answered on 14 May 2018 by Baroness Williams of Trafford, Minister of State (Home Office):

We strongly dispute those reports. In February 2014, investigations into the abuse of English language testing following a Panorama programme revealed systemic cheating which was indicative of an extremely serious, large scale organised fraud. The Government took immediate robust action on this but at all times has been careful to ensure that this has been measured and proportionate.

This action included a number of criminal investigations launched into those behind this fraud. At the present time, 21 people have received criminal convictions for their role in this with prison sentences totalling 68 years being handed down. The Courts have consistently found that our evidence is sufficient to establish the presumption of fraud where we have taken action in individual cases. It is then up to individuals to challenge this through statutory appeals where applicable or Judicial Review.