David Norris (Independent)

However where they do not remain as students and welsh on that agreement there is a good case for expelling them. They are not the kind of people of whom I am thinking. It depends on the definition of "student". If people are taking courses at reputable third level centres of learning, then it seems they are precisely the kind of people who would be useful in this country.

The Minister of State seemed to suggest that if one allowed the children the period of reckonable residence and citizenship to come into operation, then this might act as a lure and we would get more asylum seekers. I do not see how this would be so because if it is subsequently determined that they are not refugees, then they will not have any significant advantage. Therefore, spurious claims of asylum or refugee status would not confer any advantage on either them or their child. I do not see how it could be an inducement for them to take up this position. I recognise that the Minister of State will not change his mind but at least I will have this on the record, not that it will be a great comfort to the people who have briefed me on this matter.