Extracts from Parliamentary Proceedings - Mar 26

Martin Docherty-Hughes (West Dunbartonshire) (SNP): At the European Council, was the Prime Minister able to speak to the President of France, who on a recent state visit to India managed to secure a trade deal valued at $16 billion, despite having the dead weight of the European Union on his back?

The Prime Minister: I did indeed have discussions with the President of France, but we were discussing other issues, such as how we should deal with the threat from Russia.

Extract from Lords oral question on Immigration: International Students

Baroness Hamwee (LD): My Lords, will the Minister consider that what may be gained in the numbers is lost by the message as it is heard: foreigners are not welcome, and the British do not understand the international nature of learning?

The Minister of State, Home Office (Baroness Williams of Trafford): My Lords, the message that is going out appears to be from your Lordships’ House and is not being heard internationally. Much has been made of applications from India. Last year, the numbers granted increased by 28%. I dispute that students are not feeling welcome in this country. They are applying in their droves.

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